Albertsons Launches Groundbreaking Campaign to Combat Childhood Hunger

On June 22, 2026, Albertsons Companies, Inc. (NYSE: ACI) and the Albertsons Companies Foundation announced the launch of a transformative nationwide initiative, “Nourish the American Dream.” This pioneering campaign seeks to combat childhood hunger across the United States, leveraging the power of collaboration with over 250 nonprofit partners, national brands, and enthusiastic supporters. The campaign aims to raise an ambitious $5 million from July 1-7, 2026, through a series of events, including a unique Dream Pantry Auction featuring signed pantry staples from celebrities.

The campaign is part of the Foundation’s broader “Nourishing Neighbors” initiative, which is founded on the principle that every child deserves the nourishment necessary to thrive and pursue their dreams. TV personality Mario Lopez has been appointed as the national spokesperson, tasked with amplifying awareness and driving participation in this vital cause.

Lopez, who has personal ties to the issue, expressed his commitment to the cause, stating, “Growing up, I saw how difficult it can be for families when food isn’t always guaranteed, which is why this cause is so important to me.” His passion for ending childhood hunger is evident, as he aims to rally Americans to support the initiative.

A staggering number of children in the U.S. face hunger, especially during the summer months when they lose access to school meals. Currently, only about one in six children who depend on school lunches receive meals over the summer. This alarming statistic underscores the urgency of the campaign, which seeks to address the barriers that hunger creates in learning, confidence, belonging, and opportunity.

The “Nourish the American Dream” campaign unites an extensive network of nonprofit organizations, including Feeding America®, Food Research and Action Center, Gift Card Bank, Hunger Free America, Move for Hunger, No Kid Hungry, Partnership for a Healthier America, and WhyHunger. Together, these organizations will work to raise critical funds and awareness for childhood hunger relief with a collective goal of $5 million.

In a significant commitment, the Albertsons Companies Foundation will match donations made during the campaign up to $2.5 million, effectively doubling the impact of contributions made between July 1-7. This matching initiative is designed to encourage more individuals and organizations to participate in the campaign.

The centerpiece of the campaign is the Dream Pantry Auction, a one-of-a-kind charitable fundraiser designed to engage the public in the fight against childhood hunger. Hosted by Lopez, the auction will feature everyday pantry staples transformed into unique collectibles signed by a variety of celebrities, including Stephen Curry, Robert Downey Jr., Livvy Dunne, Tony Hawk, and Christina Milian.

Lopez emphasized the innovative nature of the auction, stating, “A signed pantry item like a box of cereal or peanut butter may sound unexpected, but that’s the point. It’s a powerful, and fun, way to support a great cause while owning a unique collectible and conversation piece.” All proceeds from the auction will directly support childhood hunger relief efforts nationwide.

In conjunction with the auction, the Foundation has launched a national PSA campaign titled “Feed This,” which aims to highlight the hunger challenges families face throughout the year. This campaign serves to inspire action and awareness during the critical July 1-7 giving window. The PSA will be disseminated across multiple media platforms, including television, radio, digital, print, and out-of-home marketing.

Anne Filipic, CEO of Share Our Strength, remarked, “Ending child hunger in America is within reach. When children have consistent access to healthy food, they are empowered to achieve their full potential.” This sentiment reflects the campaign's overarching goal of driving lasting change for children and families across the nation.

For those interested in participating in the “Nourish the American Dream” campaign, additional information—including a list of participating nonprofit organizations and details about the Dream Pantry Auction—can be found at NourishTheAmericanDream.org.

Albertsons Companies is committed to making a meaningful difference in communities nationwide. In 2025, the company, alongside the Albertsons Companies Foundation, contributed an impressive $497 million in food and financial support, underscoring its dedication to addressing hunger and ensuring that those in need have access to nutritious food.

This campaign marks an important step forward in the fight against childhood hunger, inviting individuals and communities to unite in support of a cause that affects millions of children across the United States.