Panera asks everyone to help fill a plate for someone in need

While the tables sit empty, the plates can be full. Panera asks everyone to help fill a plate for someone in need and help to make a difference.

During the current crisis, charity, goodwill and willingness to help others has brought hope. Panera is encouraging people to help where they can. Are you ready to help fill a plate for someone in need?

Food insecurity has affected many families and communities. As food banks, organizations and even restaurants help to fill the table with food, the need keeps growing. The long lines of cars are the visual reminder that this crisis impacts everyone.

Although some people can make substantial donations, other people may be unable. Still, everyone can do their part in other ways. Panera is asking people to take a selfie, just a picture, to help Feeding America.

The process is simple. Anyone can take an empty plate selfie, post it on Instagram and use #SeeAPlateFillAPlateChallenge. $3 will be contributed to Feeding America, Together Without Hunger. People are encouraged to nominate others and work together to have as many people as possible fill all those empty plates.

These funds will go to providing meals to children and families. Panera’s donated meals include a ham sandwich, a bag of chips and an apple.

In addition to the Instagram campaign, Panera’s guests can round-up the bill at check out. The additional funds will be donated to Together Without Hunger.

This recent campaign is one of many efforts that the food industry has created to help people throughout the nation. While people might feel isolated through social distancing, food and charity can help nourish. Just like food satisfies a hunger, the willingness to help others helps to fill the emptiness.

Recently, the Hellmann’s Food Relief Fund will provide $500,000 worth of meals. These individually catered meals are provided to New York City hospitals. With 30,000 meals provided, many empty plates will be filled.

While health care workers are being fed, the Hellmann’s Food Relief Fund helps with local restaurants who are creating these meals. Since many restaurants are struggling, this program helps to keep restaurants open and restaurant employees working. With extreme uncertainty within the restaurant industry, these programs can help.

Across the country, all types of organizations, companies and even individuals are doing their part. From rounding up the food order bill to buying some extra groceries for a friend in need to supporting companies who are giving back, there are many ways to spread some kindness. If we all work together, all those empty plates can be filled.

What are you doing to help others during these trying times? Can you help fill an empty plate?