ATHOL — Even before he encouraged them to help themselves to a free bag of potatoes or two, Super 1 shoppers didn’t hesitate to greet Ron McIntire with smiles and hugs Thursday morning.

He’s just that kind of person. But the potatoes didn’t hurt. 

Super 1 Foods and Spokane-based Peirone Produce joined forces Thursday to give away about 4,000 pounds of potatoes to shoppers at the supermarket’s Athol location. The occasion was dubbed “Spud Share Day.” 

“We want to help people out during the holidays,” said Brent Shammo, president of Peirone Produce. “We know money’s tight right now.” 

Peirone Produce employees, Super 1 staff and members of the McIntire family all pitched in, hefting bags of potatoes from one of four large crates into the hands of shoppers as they entered and exited the store. Some customers were alone; others came in pairs or with their children. Each one left a little happier.

“Wow,” one man said quietly to himself, smiling as he pushed his cart into the parking lot. 

A woman said she’d like to bring a bag to a client in need. A Super 1 employee urged her to take a second bag. 

For the McIntires and the extended Super 1 family, sharing food with their community feels natural. 

“I love it,” Ron said. 

Even better, Mother Nature cooperated. The gray skies over Athol, threaded through with light, never quite gave way to rain. 

Super 1 Foods Vice President Randy McIntire said it felt good to provide some of the region’s bounty at this special time of year. 

“It’s fun to share fresh, local produce during the holiday time,” he said. 

Shammo said the team at Peirone Produce was glad to partner with Super 1 for the produce giveaway because the businesses share similar core values and a focus on community. 

“We all live in this area,” Shammo said. “We know how much Super 1 cares.”