Rockville team volunteering at So What Else
As the opening of our new Wegmans in Rockville, Maryland, approaches, the store’s leadership team has been actively participating in community events, building relationships with local organizations, and finding ways to support the local community. To date, the team has donated more than $21,000 to the local community, much of that through a partnership with So What Else, an organization that supports the community through food distribution and other services.
In March, the Rockville team spent time volunteering at So What Else, assisting with food packaging and distribution. Rockville Service Area Manager Javier Elivo Caro says it was a great way to get to know the community.
“We directed traffic, distributed food, and organized bags,” he said. “The drive-through system allowed me to help Spanish speakers as well."
“It was so wonderful to have them come and see firsthand the need directly in their community,” says Allie Bonney, director of development at So What Else. “A lot of people don't realize how much food insecurity there is in Montgomery County.”
Once the store opens, So What Else will be the perishable pickup partner for the store, collecting donations seven days a week, to distribute to those in need.
Bonney added that this partnership will enable So What Else to continue providing the individuals and families they serve with consistent access to fresh produce, nutritious proteins, and essential pantry staples, helping to reduce food insecurity and improve overall community health and well-being.
In May, the team connected with Richard Montgomery and Rockville High Schools to identify five graduating seniors deserving of a $1,000 scholarship. This is a nod to our employee scholarships that support hundreds of employees each year.
The Rockville leadership team is also preparing for the upcoming Neighborhood Safety Day event, which will involve fire, police, and other community organizations. The team will hand out snacks and water. The event takes place on June 28.