Tops Friendly Markets partners with Allen Family Farms

Tops will feature Allen Family Farms melons, with a portion of sales supporting the Patricia Allen Fund at Golisano Children’s Hospital.

Press Release
September 4, 2026

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4 minute read

Courtesy Tops

September 2, 2026 — Williamsville, NY — To kickoff what Western New Yorkers are already crowning a victory season, Tops Friendly Markets BB #:103173 is teaming up with the Allen Family once again to bring fresh, sweet flavor and now fashion, to customers across Western New York.

Beginning this season, participating Tops locations will feature Allen Family Farms cantaloupes and honeydew melons, with a portion of sales supporting the Patricia Allen Fund (PAF) at Golisano Children’s Hospital of Buffalo.

Your local Tops will have these delicious melons available and can be found displayed in the iconic JA17 boxes in the heart of the produce department. (Limited supply available-get yours before they’re gone!)

New Allen Family Farms Merchandise Line Fans can also show their support beyond the produce department with a new Allen Family Farms merchandise line available at participating Tops locations. The collection features long- and short-sleeve T-shirts, a canvas bag, mugs, and a ball cap, giving customers another way to celebrate the Allen Family Farms brand and its special connection to Western New York. A portion of the proceeds will also benefit the PAF.

A Family Tradition in Every Melon For more than three decades, the Allen family has cultivated melons in California’s Central Valley, carrying on a proud tradition started by previous generations. Joel and Lavonne Allen raised their children among the rows, teaching the value of perseverance, quality, and care for the land.

Today, those lessons are reflected in the JA17 Allen Family Farms label, a brand that celebrates both family roots and excellence on the field through their son, Buffalo’s own #17.

More Than a Label — A Community Impact The JA17 label stands as a symbol of heritage and purpose. Just as Buffalo’s favorite quarterback’s dedication has inspired fans across Buffalo and beyond, the family’s melons are known for their consistency and flavor. With every purchase at Tops, customers are helping support the Patricia Allen Fund, which invests in advanced equipment, family programs, and access to top-tier pediatric care at Golisano Children’s Hospital of Buffalo.

“We are excited to have Westside Produce and the Allen Family supporting the Patricia Allen Fund again this season,” said Stephen Turkovich, MD, president, Golisano Children’s Hospital of Buffalo. “Donations like this, and the continued support of our children’s hospital from Josh Allen and his family, makes a major impact in how our care teams get kids back to being kids.”

A Shared Commitment to Health and Wellness Tops is proud to be part of this initiative, connecting farm-fresh produce to a cause that matters deeply to Western New York. This partnership also builds on our favorite quarterback’s broader advocacy for healthier lifestyles, which includes his national partnership with Wonderful Pistachios.

“Bringing these melons to our stores is about more than taste,” said Jeff Cady, vice president of produce and floral for Tops Markets. “It’s about strengthening the community and supporting the children and families who need it most at a hospital we’re incredibly fortunate to have right in our own backyard.”

About Tops Friendly Markets
Headquartered in Williamsville, NY, Tops Markets operates a robust network of 152 grocery stores spanning New York, Pennsylvania, and Vermont, including one franchise location. As one of Western New York’s largest employers, and with over 14,000 associates across its entire footprint, Tops is committed to delivering sustainably sourced, premium-quality products. Beyond retail, Tops is committed to the communities it serves through initiatives focused on hunger relief, health improvement, youth education, and environmental sustainability. Discover more at www.topsmarkets.com.

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