PITTSBURGH — For its efforts in diabetes prevention and care, Giant Eagle has received the American Diabetes Association’s (ADA) Chairman’s Citation Award.
The food and drug retailer said Thursday that it’s the second-ever recipient of the award, which recognizes the accomplishments of individuals, corporations, institutions and organizations that have demonstrated significant dedication and commitment and have had a positive impact in advancing the mission of the ADA.
Bret Michaels, lead vocalist of the rock group Poison and a diabetes advocate, received the first award in 2010 for his efforts in raising awareness about the seriousness of diabetes and the important of diabetes management and prevention.
Giant Eagle said that since 2005 it has provided more than $750,000 in support of the ADA and thousands of dollars of in-kind support such as food for events, nonperishable products for diabetes camps and leadership on local boards and committees.
Last year, Giant Eagle introduced a program offering the five most commonly prescribed diabetes medications for type 2 diabetes at no cost to medical prescription holders. To date, Giant Eagle has provided about $4 million in customer savings on diabetes medications.
In addition to free diabetes medications, Giant Eagle offers a multifaceted diabetes care program consisting of free diabetes screenings in all 211 pharmacy store locations that will include glucose screenings and A1C tests to check average blood sugar levels; pharmacy diabetes care specialists at all pharmacies, who are trained in an American Pharmacists Association program that’s endorsed by the American Academy of Diabetes Educators; and nutrition classes that outline the major components for a healthy lifestyle, including food choices and exercise.
"Diabetes is, unfortunately, an increasingly common disease in the United States and in the communities that we serve," Brett Merrell, senior vice president of pharmacy operations at Giant Eagle, said in a statement. "We have long admired the wonderful efforts of the American Diabetes Association and are proud to continue our collaborative efforts to both educate and treat Giant Eagle customers about these diseases."
Commented Larry Hausner, chief executive officer of the American Diabetes Association, "Giant Eagle is an important and valued supporter of the American Diabetes Association. It gives me great pride to recognize Giant Eagle for their support of our Stop Diabetes Movement and the support they provide to the Pittsburgh, Cleveland and Columbus markets."
Overall, Giant Eagle’s store network includes 170 corporate and 58 independently owned and operated supermarkets, plus 160 fuel and convenience stores, in western Pennsylvania, Ohio, north central West Virginia and Maryland.
