NASHVILLE (January 11, 2023) – Special Olympics Tennessee and Publix Super Markets have united through a mission-driven partnership to help people with intellectual disabilities and provide more life-changing opportunities to Special Olympics Tennessee athletes. This January 11-22, 2023, the iconic duo will once again hold the annual Torch Icon Campaign, bringing together Publix associates, customers and local communities to support over 17,000 Special Olympics athletes in Tennessee and beyond. This year, the campaign is reaching new communities throughout the Southeast U.S. and supporting more Special Olympics athletes, making this the largest campaign to date.
Beginning January 11 and running through January 22, customers who visit their local Publix can help support their state’s athletes with a simple donation. All donors will receive more than $20 in coupon savings, including exclusive savings on Procter & Gamble brands like Crest, Always, Olay, Old Spice, Gillette and Pampers. Donations can be made at the register during check out for as little as $1 or a specific desired amount.
Since 1993, more than $65 million has been raised through the Torch Icon Campaign in the southeast, helping Special Olympics athletes to develop their physical and mental wellness, demonstrate courage and experience the power of sports with their family, friends and their local communities. In 2022, Publix Super Market customers and associates contributed nearly $4.5 million to Special Olympics to ensure athletes were able to train and compete free of cost. This brings their total donation since 1993 to almost $65 million.
Special Olympics Tennessee serves over 17,000 athletes who compete at the local, state, national and international levels. In addition to training and competition for these athletes, Special Olympics Tennessee provides free medical screenings for thousands of Tennesseans with intellectual disabilities through its health programs, including much needed access to dental hygiene, prescription glasses and hearing aids.
Those looking to participate in the Torch Icon Campaign and help support local Special Olympics Tennessee athletes can visit their local participating Publix this Jan. 11-22. Participants will also have the chance to meet Special Olympics athletes in-store to hear about their inspiring stories.