Publix Super Markets ended its annual United Way of the Midlands charitable giving campaign raising more than $608,000 combined with a Publix Super Markets Charities match.

“The associates at Publix are always striving to make the Midlands a better community through their ongoing support of United Way,” said United Way of the Midlands President & CEO Sara Fawcett. “They are a great example of how much impact can be made when we all come together for the greater good of our neighbors. Not only do they support United Way with monetary investments, they dedicate a great amount of their time volunteering in the community. Their investments allow us to focus on education, economic mobility, and health to ensure everyone has the opportunity to achieve their potential.”

Juan Cuervo and Mike Jelenc executed this year’s United Way of the Midlands campaign for the Publix stores in the Midlands.

“Publix has enjoyed a long-standing partnership with the United Way thanks in part to the generosity of our associates, who donate their time, treasure, and talent to United Ways across our market areas,” said Kim Reynolds, Publix media and community relations manager. “Our associates care deeply about their communities and are committed to giving back and being involved as responsible citizens.”

This year, Publix was awarded with the United Way of the Midlands Community Champion Award for Best Overall Performance. This award is given to those companies that go above and beyond through volunteer service for United Way’s community partner agencies. Additionally, Mike Skehan, store manager of the Publix located in Columbia, was awarded the Mr. George Community Service Award, which is given to one associate per Publix division and one support associate who have set an example by giving their time, money, and talent to the community and continuing George Jenkins’ legacy of serving others. Mike received the award at the company’s annual stockholders meeting in April.

To learn more about United Way of the Midlands and our annual workplace campaigns, visit www.uway.org.