New Hope-Solebury School District, in partnership with the New Hope Borough Police Department, Solebury Township Police Department, and Fisherman’s Mark, recently participated in a spirited “Supermarket Sweep” challenge at a GIANT grocery store in Logan Square to raise awareness of food insecurity and support families in need.
The event, benefiting Fisherman’s Mark, brought together teams from New Hope-Solebury High School, local police departments, and Fisherman’s Mark board members for a friendly competition focused on real-life budgeting and community awareness.
During the challenge, each team received a food insecurity scenario and a set budget, requiring participants to shop strategically while meeting the needs of their assigned household. Students went head-to-head with officers and community leaders, practicing financial literacy, teamwork, and problem-solving in a fast-paced, hands-on environment.
With competition running high, teams carefully balanced affordability and nutrition. While Fisherman’s Mark board members came closest to their assigned budget, all participants were considered winners for their commitment to learning and service.
“This was an incredible opportunity for our students to better understand the realities some families face every day,” said Patrick Sasse, high school principal. “Through teamwork and friendly competition, they gained valuable insight into budgeting, empathy, and community service.”
Thanks to the generosity of GIANT, all food selected during the event was donated to Fisherman’s Mark. In total, more than $1,000 worth of groceries was collected to support local families.
In addition, New Hope-Solebury School District receives funding through GIANT’S’ Feeding School Kids program, which allows customers to “round up” at the register. These donations support the district’s food services efforts to address food insecurity.
Beyond the donations, the event strengthened partnerships between students, law enforcement, and nonprofit leaders while shining a spotlight on the ongoing issue of food insecurity in the region.
“This activity showed how much can be accomplished when schools, police, businesses, and nonprofits come together,” said Michael Downey, GIANT store manager. “It was fun, meaningful, and made a real difference for our neighbors who need support.”
“Events like this show what’s possible when organizations across our community work together,” said Jennifer Williford, executive director of Fisherman’s Mark. “Seeing students, local police departments, and community leaders from both sides of the river come together to better understand the realities of food insecurity—and to help stock the Free Market—was incredibly meaningful.”
