Wakefern, ShopRite sponsor 2025 Special Olympics New Jersey Summer Games

Wakefern Food Corp. and ShopRite continued their support of the Special Olympics New Jersey Summer Games that took place from June 6 to June 8 at The College of New Jersey. 

More than 500 volunteers, including team members from Wakefern and local ShopRite stores and their families,  volunteered throughout the event, extending a nearly 40-year tradition of involvement with the event.

Wakefern and ShopRite, two of the biggest employers in New Jersey, provided more than 15,000 meals to athletes, families and volunteers over the course of the weekend. Volunteers helped distribute snacks and organize activities and gift giveaways for athletes and their families to enjoy during their downtime.

“It’s a privilege to partner with Special Olympics New Jersey – an organization that celebrates the strength, determination and spirit of these remarkable athletes,” said Mike Stigers, president of Wakefern Food Corp., the retailer-owned supermarket cooperative and distribution and merchandising arm for ShopRite stores. “We are honored to play a role in creating a fun experience for everyone involved and look forward to cheering on our own ShopRite associates who are competing in the Games.”

The event began on June 6 with the 42nd annual Law Enforcement Torch Run, which raises awareness and funds for the Special Olympics movement. The torch run stops at nearly 50 ShopRite locations across New Jersey, where ShopRite associates provide refreshments to support participants.