By The Grace of a Grocer

SOUTHFIELD, Mich. – Jim Hiller is fond of the George Bernard Shaw quote, “My life belongs to the community, and as long as I live, it is my privilege to do for it whatever I can.” 

It is with those goals that Hiller’s Markets is partnering with Ward Evangelical Presbyterian Church for a first-of-its-kind locally-based program to provide groceries at a significant discount to families who need the help in a way that maintains individual dignity.

“A strong man, a good man, is one who recognizes and uses the power he has to help other,” says Hiller, CEO of Hiller’s Markets. “We’re already seeing generous families ordering food for those who need it in an effort to preserve their privacy and maintain their integrity. I am honored to work with such an established and inspirational church to help local families keep their heads above water.”

The Grace Groceries program, a Ward Church effort launching this month, offers a box of high-quality food from Hiller’s for $30. There are no income restrictions, and anyone can participate. Orders are taken mid-month, with distribution on the fourth Saturday.

The first distribution is set for Saturday, March 28 at Ward Church. Photo opportunities are available on Friday, March 27 at the Plymouth Hiller’s (5 Mile and Haggerty), when Ward representatives retrieve items from the grocery between 11:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. Additional photo opportunities will be available on Saturday during distribution at the church, which is located on Six Mile, west of Haggerty.

Founded in 1941, Hiller’s Markets operates seven stores in Southeast Michigan. Dedicated to promoting local companies and cottage industries, Hiller’s indicates Michigan products with special shelf tags in every aisle and highlights Michigan companies in its biweekly circular. This partnership with Ward is another step in the ongoing effort to rebuild Michigan.

Located at 40000 West Six Mile Road in Northville, Ward Church is driven by a mission of “loving God passionately, serving others joyfully and sharing faith with people across the street and around the world.” Founded in 1956, it serves 2,800 members and families.

“For many people, the loss of a job or reduced income requires significant lifestyle changes,” says Alan Adler, Grace Groceries coordinator and the elder for Community Outreach at Ward. “Some people are reluctant to ask for help. They feel differently, though, when they pay for something, even at a significant savings.” 

“These days, everyone knows someone who has been laid off or is otherwise impacted by the economic downturn.”

Hiller’s has a long history of joining with community organizations – through its active Scrip card program, in support of events and by hosting specialty food fairs serving niche markets like gluten-free consumers.

“I am dedicated to working with good people and good organizations close to home,” says Jim Hiller. “With so many jobs lost and the economy spiraling, I want customers to know that we are in this together – Hiller’s is committed to offering affordable, high-quality options so that everyone can eat healthfully and purchase food, no matter their situation.”

Hiller’s groceries are located in Ann Arbor, Berkley, West Bloomfield, Northville, Plymouth, Commerce Township and Union Lake.

Media representatives are welcome to attend the March 27 load day (11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.) as Hiller’s distributes Grace Groceries orders to Ward Church representatives. Distribution will take place at Hiller’s, 15455 Haggerty Road (at 5 Mile), Plymouth, MI 48170, or on Saturday, March 28, from 10 a.m. to noon at Ward, 40000 West Six Mile Road, Northville Township, MI 48168.

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