Whole Foods Donation Request

As a nonprofit event planner, you're always on the lookout for ways to secure funding and resources to support your cause. One opportunity worth considering is the Whole Foods Market Community Giving program. In this blog post, we'll outline the essential information you need to know about the Whole Foods donation request process, including eligibility requirements and how to submit your application.

Whole Foods Market Community Giving Program Overview

The Whole Foods Market Community Giving program is a unique initiative that allows team members from the company to address the needs within their local communities. With a mission to nourish people and the planet, the program offers financial support to community-based organizations that focus on food access, environmental stewardship, or other closely-related needs. Note that Whole Foods does not provide gift card donations or in-kind donations. Access the Whole Foods donation request here.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the Whole Foods Market Community Giving program, applicants must:

1. Be registered as a US 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, a Canadian Registered Charitable Organization, or a UK Charitable Incorporated Organization.
2. Demonstrate verified non-profit status.
3. Designate donations for non-profit program support in communities surrounding Whole Foods Market stores.
4. Align with Whole Foods Market’s Core Values.

Keep in mind that Whole Foods Market does not donate to individuals, political candidates or organizations, or for-profit businesses.

Recipient Guidelines

Organizations receiving donations from Whole Foods Market must abide by the following guidelines:

1. Obtain prior written approval from Whole Foods Market for any publicity, advertising, press release, public statement or announcement, or public communication regarding the relationship, the donation, or any terms thereof.
2. Not use the name, trade name, service marks, trademarks, trade dress, or logo of Whole Foods Market without prior written consent.
3. Comply with Whole Foods Market's then-current guidelines and/or policies related to the use of its marks, including entering into a separate agreement and adhering to trademark guidelines.

What other stores like Whole Foods donate to nonprofits?

• Costco Donation Request
  • Donates in all states except for AR, ME, WV, and WY
  • See our article on Costco's donation program for more information.
• Publix Donation Request
  • Donates in AL, FL, GA, NC, SC, TN, VA
  • See our article on Publix’s donation program for more information.
• Kroger Donation Request
  • Donates in AL, AK, AR, AZ, CA, CO, DE, FL, GA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MD, MI, MS, MO, MT, NE, NV, NM, NC, OH, OR, SC, TN, TX, UT, VA, WA, WV, WI, WY
  • See our article on Publix’s donation program for more information.
• Trader Joe's Donation Request
  • Donates in all states except AK, HI, MS, MT, ND, SD, WV, WY
• Sprouts Farmers Market Donation Request
  • Donates in AL, AZ, CA, CO, DE, FL, GA, KS, LA, MD, MO, NV, NJ, NM, NC, OK, PA, SC, TN, TX, UT, VA, WA
• Smart & Final Donation Request
  • Donates in AZ, CA, NV
• Winn-Dixie Donation Request
  • Donates in AL, FL, GA, LA, MS
• Wegmans Donation Request
  • MA, MD, NC, NJ, NY, PA, VA

What are other ways in which Whole Foods Market interacts with communities and pursues social good?

Whole Foods Market is deeply committed to engaging with communities and promoting social good through various programs and initiatives that align with their mission and core values. Here are some ways Whole Foods Market contributes to the well-being of communities and the planet:

Shop Local, Give Local

Whole Foods Market encourages customers to support their communities by purchasing local products or donating at the register. With each dollar donated, at least 10 meals are provided to neighbors facing hunger. This initiative runs from November 30 to December 20, with Canadian stores donating to local food banks in their communities.

In-Store Events

Whole Foods Market hosts Shop Local, Give Local in-store events, showcasing Local Forager-curated goods to inspire holiday shopping. By purchasing gifts from local suppliers, customers contribute to the program's success.

Regional, National, and Global Giving

Whole Foods Market extends its support beyond local communities by participating in regional, national, and global initiatives related to food security, food waste, and sustainability. This involvement addresses larger-scale needs in the U.S., Canada, and the UK.

Whole Foods Market also is actively committed to their three foundations:

Whole Planet Foundation

This foundation aims to alleviate global poverty by helping communities in the United States and around the world that supply Whole Foods Market stores with products.

Whole Kids Foundation

Focused on promoting children's nutrition and wellness, this foundation supports schools and inspires families to make healthier choices.

Whole Cities Foundation

By partnering with community-led organizations, this foundation works to expand healthy food access and nutrition education, fostering thriving local food systems.

These various programs and initiatives demonstrate Whole Foods Market's dedication to nurturing communities, both locally and globally, and making a positive impact on people and the environment.

Final Thoughts

Securing a Whole Foods donation for your nonprofit event is a valuable way to support your cause and impact your local community. By understanding the eligibility requirements and submitting a well-prepared application, you can increase your chances of receiving funding through the Whole Foods Market Community Giving program. Visit their community giving programs to learn more and submit your donation request today.

Cover photo by Nathan Dumlao on Unsplash