The United Way of Northeast Michigan will receive $13,000 as a result of the Alpena Meijer store, as part of Meijer’s response to COVID-19. Hank Meijer, executive chairman, and Rick Keyes, president and CEO of Meijer, have announced a $4 million contribution to 99 local United Way agencies that Meijer currently supports throughout the Midwest.

In an announcement letter to the United Way of Northeast Michigan, Meijer stated, “Meijer is founded on the belief that our purpose is to enrich lives in the communities we serve. Our partnership with United Way spans generations here at Meijer and we are all grateful for the important work you do in our community every day. These are unprecedented times, and as we all work to prevent the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19) it’s important to recognize the many organizations like yours that are on the front lines, delivering emergency services to those in need.”

Joseph Gentry, executive director of United Way of Northeast Michigan, has expressed the agency’s heartfelt gratitude for Meijer’s generous gift and ongoing support. This donation will be used along with gifts from Community Financial and Consumers Power Foundation, initiating the United Way of Northeast Michigan Emergency Relief Fund. Monies donated to this fund will be used to meet the immediate COVID-19 response needs of organizations providing food distribution, food support for seniors and those with disabilities, emergency housing and shelter support and medical support services such as protective supplies and transportation. The United Way has 15 community partners serving Alcona, Alpena & Montmorency counties and have been notified of the availability of the United Way’s support.