Central Valley-based grocer Save Mart, part of The Save Mart Companies, is celebrating its long-standing partnership with the Modesto Nuts as the city’s minor league baseball team plays its final season in Modesto. Since the team’s inception in 2005, the partnership has played a significant role in advancing community engagement, supporting education, and expanding access to America’s favorite pastime.
“Generations of families have marked the arrival of spring each year by attending a Modesto Nuts game in support of the home team, and it’s this sense of community that connects with Save Mart’s longstanding commitment to the Central Valley,” said Donovan Ford, SVP and chief operations officer of The Save Mart Companies. “This partnership is about bringing people together, supporting our youth, and making sure they have fun, meaningful experiences.”
Over the past two decades, this collaboration has become deeply embedded in the heart of the community, most notably through the Modesto Nuts Reading Program. The initiative has impacted students across four counties and reached nearly half a million children, serving to foster a love for reading while providing complimentary tickets to make professional baseball more accessible to families. As part of their contribution, Save Mart has also provided free fresh produce to participating children, further demonstrating their dedication to supporting local youth.
“Save Mart’s support of our Reading Program has been truly transformational,” said Veronica Hernandez, general manager of the Modesto Nuts. “It’s not just about baseball but about creating meaningful memories for children and providing them with the foundation they need to thrive.”
Over the years, Save Mart and the Modesto Nuts have grown together, finding new ways to give back to the community. From fun-filled mascot visits at Save Mart locations to thoughtful giveaways and gift card promotions, their efforts have shifted to offer more meaningful support to local families. During the challenges of the pandemic, Save Mart extended a helping hand to Modesto Nuts seasonal staff, providing job opportunities when the 2020 season was canceled — further proving their dedication to the community, both on and off the field.
Together, Save Mart and the Modesto Nuts have created moments that go far beyond the game. Whether it’s a child receiving their first baseball ticket through the Reading Program or a family gaining access to more affordable groceries through promotional gift cards, the partnership has left a lasting impact.
As the Modesto Nuts look toward a new chapter, Save Mart remains proud of its legacy on the outfield walls and in the lives of so many families. Plans are underway to return field signage to longtime partners like Save Mart as a token of appreciation and shared history.
For more information about Save Mart and its community partnerships, visit www.SaveMart.com.
