Market 32 and Price Chopper, Vermont Principals’ Association, Invite Local High Schools to Compete in “Food Drive State Championship”
Schenectady, N.Y., Sept. 29, 2025 – In recognition of Hunger Action Month in September, Market 32 and Price Chopper and the Vermont Principals’ Association (VPA) are officially launching a first-ever Food Drive State Championship to rally local high school communities in the fight against hunger. Throughout the 2025–2026 academic year, high schools across Vermont will compete to see who can collect the most nonperishable food donations, all of which will be donated to nearby food banks and pantries. Winning schools in each of four divisions (based on basketball alignment) and one overall winner will be crowned as “State Champions.”
Each divisional champion will receive a $500 Market 32 and Price Chopper gift card and an exclusive “Food Drive State Champs” banner to hang in their school. The community with the highest overall donation total will also receive an additional $1,000 in Market 32 and Price Chopper gift cards.
“We know the power of teamwork and school spirit, and this challenge gives students, families, and staff an exciting way to make a lasting impact in their communities,” said Amanda Terencio, Market 32 and Price Chopper zone director for Vermont stores. “Every can, every box, and every contribution will help our neighbors in need put food on the table.”
The following nonperishable items will count toward each school’s donation total:
- Peanut butter and jelly
- Canned soups and meals
- Cereal, oatmeal, and granola bars
- Canned fruit and vegetables
- 100% juice
- Canned protein, including tuna and chicken
- Beans
- Pasta
- Macaroni and cheese
Donations of low-sodium, low-sugar, or whole-grain versions of these products are encouraged. To spice up the competition, monthly standings and updates will be revealed on the VPA’s social media channels and website, allowing communities to follow along throughout the school year.
“The Vermont Principals’ Association is excited to partner with Market 32 and Price Chopper in launching the Food Drive State Championship,” said Jay Nichols, VPA’s Senior Executive Director. In a time with increasing food insecurity for many Vermonters, the VPA sees this as a fun and meaningful project that schools can engage in to better serve those in need in our communities.”
For more information about the Food Drive State Championship and how to get your school involved, visit vpaonline.org and sign up your school by clicking here.
*Note: Glass containers cannot be accepted as part of donations.