Hy-Vee Expands Veteran Support Programs Across Iowa in May

You might notice something a little different at checkout and around the store while you’re shopping at Hy-Vee this May. It’s part of a broader effort tied to the upcoming America 250 celebration, and it’s focused on supporting veterans and active-duty service members across Iowa and the Midwest.

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According to a recent press release, Hy-Vee is inviting their customers to round up their purchases to the nearest dollar through the store’s Hy-Vee Homefront initiative going on now, and through the month of May. Those small change donations add up quickly. This year they’ll go toward several well-known organizations that serve military families, including the American Red Cross and Honor Flight Network. Hy-Vee says it will then match those contributions up to $100,000. That means the impact could stretch even further and provide programs everything from emergency assistance to once-in-a-lifetime trips for veterans.

But it's not just about fundraising. Throughout May, veterans and active-duty service members can stop at participating Hy-Vee locations across Iowa for a free cup of coffee on Wednesday mornings. There’s also a bigger event planned for May 20th, when stores with hot food will offer a free breakfast featuring eggs, biscuits and gravy, and hashbrowns.

Hy-Vee will also be teaming up with the USO (United Service Organizations), to distribute thousands of hygiene kits to service members who are deploying or currently serving. It’s another practical way to support those serving away from home.

Cedar Rapids Hy-Vee via Google Maps

This initiative hits close to home for me. I have many friends and family who have served and their sacrifices of time, blood, and tears are what make our veterans so special. For Iowans as a whole, Hy-Vee is of course headquartered in West Des Moines, and its Homefront program has already contributed millions of dollars to veteran-focused causes since it was launched in 2013.

So, when you grab your groceries this month, round up a few cents for our vets. It’s an easy way to be part of something that supports neighbors, friends, and family members who have served.

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