Iowa Store Sells 2,933 Pineapples in One Hour for Charity

Imagine nearly 3,000 pineapples flying off grocery shelves in just one hour, each one making a real difference for kids and adults who need it most.

That's exactly what happened Wednesday at the Marion Hy-Vee in Iowa. The grocery store set a Guinness World Record for the most pineapples sold in a single hour, moving 2,933 tropical fruits while raising $2,933 for Camp Courageous.

Camp Courageous serves children and adults with special needs, offering year-round recreational and respite care programs. The camp has been a lifeline for Iowa families since 1972, providing a place where people of all abilities can experience adventure, friendship, and belonging.

Store Director Kyle Odem saw the world record attempt as more than just a fun challenge. He wanted to shine a spotlight on an organization doing quiet, important work in their community.

"I hope we are able to raise more awareness for Camp Courageous, for folks who may not have heard about them," Odem said. "They do great things and we want people to know about them."

The event doubled as Hy-Vee's annual fundraiser for the camp. For every pineapple purchased during that record-breaking hour, one dollar went directly to supporting campers.

The Ripple Effect

This creative fundraiser shows how thinking outside the box can turn everyday shopping into something extraordinary. Instead of asking for donations, Hy-Vee gave customers something tangible while supporting their neighbors.

The pineapple push is just the beginning. Camp Courageous will host the Pineapple Gala on August 21st, keeping the momentum going and hopefully bringing even more supporters into the fold.

Sometimes the sweetest victories come wrapped in spiky yellow fruit, proving that communities can break records and hearts at the same time.