Tops challenges families to 4 weeks of family engagement during Family Meals Month

Family meals make families stronger

Tops Friendly Markets Press Release and Graphics

September is synonymous with back to school, which means more time packing lunches, chasing off to practices, and cramming for spelling bees. But what it can also mean is more quality family time around the table.

That’s why, for the past decade, Tops has celebrated Family Meals Month in September, an important and meaningful time to gather your family around the dinner table, or any table, really, as long as you’re taking that time to disconnect from technology and reconnect with your loved ones.

FMI Foundation studies have shown, time and again, the significant, measurable scientific proof about the positive, lifelong benefits of family meals. Family meals nourish the spirit, brain and health of all family members.

In fact:

√ Regular family meals are linked to higher grades and self-esteem.

√ Children who grow up sharing family meals are more likely to exhibit prosocial behavior as adults, such as sharing, fairness and respect. 

√ With each additional family meal shared each week, adolescents are less likely to show symptoms of violence, depression and suicide, less likely to use or abuse drugs or run away, and less likely to engage in risky behavior or delinquent acts.

√ Adults and children who eat at home more regularly are less likely to suffer from obesity.

√ Increased family meals are associated with greater intake of fruits and vegetables.

As we gather more frequently around the table, in some instances three times a day as many work and school from home scenarios continue, FMI has equipped us with the tools we need to keep the inspiration flowing. From conversation starters and recipe ideas (since we all get meal fatigue!) to creative hacks and shopping tips, FMI | Stay STRONG Tips is your resource to help keep your family engaged, connected and nourished – mind, body and soul.

Tops also will continue to provide easy and affordable meal solutions throughout the months of September to help during family meals month. Simply visit www.topsmarkets.com/familymealsmonth and be sure to follow us on Instagram for family meal inspirations submitted by families just like yours.

Headquartered in Williamsville, Tops Markets operates a robust network of 152 grocery stores spanning New York, Pennsylvania and Vermont, including one franchise location. Discover more at www.topsmarkets.com.