PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) — Shoppers are mourning their favorite Stop & Shop locations after three in the region officially closed on Thursday. Stop & Shop initiated the closures after announcing earlier this year that it would be shuttering 32 underperforming stores to strengthen the brand and ensure long-term stability. The company has remodeled nearly 200 stores in the last five years, which have outperformed their older counterparts. This week, the Johnston location, Eastside Marketplace in Providence, and one in Raynham opened and closed their doors for the last time. MORE: Stop & Shop closing 32 underperforming stores "I love coming here and now they closed it after so long — what, 30 years? Yeah. Breaks my heart ... and my youngest daughter worked here for over 20 [years]," Johnston shopper Virginia Gladue said. Shoppers like Karina Papineau said it will be strange without the grocery store. "People I went to middle school with. I would always come and see familiar faces. So I don't know, it's kind of sad," Papineau said. "I know it's just a grocery store, but it's just super weird and unexpected." Additionally, the company said each location in the Northeast is partnered with a local hunger relief agency through Feeding America. For the closed stores, the grocer said it will ensure unsold products are donated to those in need, and local animal shelters will also receive pet food and supplies. The Johnston and Providence locations that closed will be donating to the following Rhode Island organizations: We Share Hope - East Providence St. Roberts Bellarmine Church - Cranston Maureen's Group Home - Providence Providence Animal Shelter St. Edwards Food Pantry Friends Of The Providence Animal Care and Control Center Day One Women's Shelter Stop & Shop stated that all affected employees will be offered opportunities within the company. Following the closures, Stop & Shop will still have more than 350 stores across five states. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Daily Roundup SIGN UP NOW