When it comes to grocery shopping, most of us are looking for a little extra something: friendly faces, fresh produce, quality meals, and even some hometown pride. And according to USA Today's latest 10 Best Readers' Choice Awards, America’s top-ranked grocery store for 2024 is delivering all that and more. And by more, I mean raising hundreds of thousands of dollars for 2024 hurricane disaster relief through the American Red Cross.

The Northwest Arterial Hy-Vee location in Dubuque
The Northwest Arterial Hy-Vee location in Dubuque.
loading...

Hy-Vee has not only topped customer polls but has also become Iowa’s largest employer, providing jobs and economic support across its home state. But it’s not just convenience or quality that puts Hy-Vee on top. Recently, the company led an impressive disaster relief effort following the devastating hurricanes that struck various parts of the U.S. In October, Hy-Vee stores hosted a “round up” campaign where customers could donate to hurricane relief by rounding up their purchases to the nearest dollar at checkout.

Eagle 102.3 logo
Get our free mobile app

The campaign raised over $241,000, which the company matched with an additional $100,000, resulting in a substantial $341,307.48 donation to the American Red Cross. The check was presented by Hy-Vee’s Chairman and CEO, Jeremy Gosch, alongside members of the Red Cross, in a gesture that shows how much the brand prioritizes giving back.

Credit; Hy-Vee / American Red Cross
Credit; Hy-Vee / American Red Cross
loading...

The relief efforts didn’t stop at a monetary donation. Hy-Vee also deployed its disaster relief fleet, complete with a large flatbed generator, and trailers packed with essential supplies like bottled water. These resources were sent directly to affected areas, where Hy-Vee partnered with organizations on the ground to support those in need. Several Hy-Vee trailers remain in impacted areas, aiding Operation BBQ Relief as it continues to serve meals to first responders and those affected by the storms.

With over 570 stores across nine Midwestern states and annual sales exceeding $13 billion, Hy-Vee is a true community champion. Their workforce of 75,000 employees embodies a mission of service, quality, and community impact. So, the next time you’re looking for groceries—or even a quick meal—you might find more than just stocked shelves at Hy-Vee. You'll discover a bit of that famous “helpful smile” along with a brand committed to making a difference. For more information about Hy-Vee, visit their website.

25 costliest hurricanes of all time

Although the full extent of damage caused by Hurricane Ian in the Southwest is still being realized, Ian is already being called one of the costliest storms to ever hit the U.S. Stacker took a look at NOAA data to extrapolate the costliest U.S. hurricanes of all time.  

LOOK: The most expensive weather and climate disasters in recent decades

Stacker ranked the most expensive climate disasters by the billions since 1980 by the total cost of all damages, adjusted for inflation, based on 2021 data from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). The list starts with Hurricane Sally, which caused $7.3 billion in damages in 2020, and ends with a devastating 2005 hurricane that caused $170 billion in damage and killed at least 1,833 people. Keep reading to discover the 50 of the most expensive climate disasters in recent decades in the U.S.

Gallery Credit: KATELYN LEBOFF

More From Eagle 102.3