News Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
DATE:
 August 30, 2024
CONTACT: Kathy Sautter
716 635 5577

   
TOPS CHALLENGES FAMILIES TO 4 WEEKS OF FAMILY ENGAGEMENT DURING FAMILY MEALS MONTH
(Williamsville, NY) – September is synonymous with back to school which means more time packing lunches, chasing off to practices, and cramming for spelling bees. But what it can ALSO mean is more quality family time around the table. That’s why for the past decade Tops has celebrated Family Meals Month every September, an important and meaningful time to gather your family around the dinner table, or any table, really, as long as you’re taking that time to disconnect from technology and reconnect with your loved ones.

FMI Foundation studies have shown time and again the significant, measurable scientific proof about the positive, lifelong benefits of family meals. Family meals nourish the spirit, brain, and health of all family members. In fact: • Regular family meals are linked to higher grades and self-esteem. • Children who grow up sharing family meals are more likely to exhibit prosocial behavior as adults, such as sharing, fairness, and respect. • With each additional family meal shared each week, adolescents are less likely to show symptoms of violence, depression, and suicide, less likely to use or abuse drugs or run away, and less likely to engage in risky behavior or delinquent acts. • Adults and children who eat at home more regularly are less likely to suffer from obesity. • Increased family meals are associated with greater intake of fruits and vegetables. As we gather more frequently around the table, FMI has equipped us with the tools we need to keep the inspiration flowing. From conversation starters and recipe ideas (since we all get meal fatigue!) to creative hacks, and shopping tips FMI | Family Meals is your resource to help keep your family engaged, connected, and nourished - mind, body, and soul. Tops also will continue to provide easy and affordable meal solutions throughout the months of September to help during family meals month! Simply visit www.topsmarkets.com/familymealsmonth and be sure to visit our Facebook page for ideas on how to engage in Family Meals Month Bingo to win great prizes! The Gold Plate Award In 2019 Tops was the recipient of the Gold Plate Award from FMI. The FMI Foundation created the Gold Plate Award in 2013 to highlight the outstanding programs implemented by the retail food industry to encourage family meals. Examples include healthy family meals, quick and easy family meals and recipes, cooking with kids, themed dinners, breakfast with the family, MyPlate meals, and much more. The award recognizes outstanding programs that food retailers and suppliers have implemented, to encourage families to share more meals, together at home, more often. This is the first time Tops has been the recipient of this award, having received honorable mentions in 2017 2018, and 2020. About Tops Friendly Markets

Headquartered in Williamsville, NY, Tops Markets operates a robust network of 152 grocery stores spanning New York, Pennsylvania, and Vermont, including one franchise location. As one of Western New York’s largest employers, and with over 14,000 associates across its entire footprint, Tops is committed to delivering sustainably sourced, premium-quality products. Beyond retail, Tops is committed to the communities it serves through initiatives focused on hunger relief, health improvement, youth education, and environmental sustainability. Discover more at www.topsmarkets.com.

 

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