Wednesday, June 4, 2008

Hunger group receives market share

Albertsons doles out money, discounts


By DANA DUGAN
Express Staff Writer

Albertsons supermarket in Hailey presented a $5,000 donation to the Blaine County Hunger Coalition a week ago in recognition of increased demand on the nonprofit organization's local mission. Store Manager Stan Soares awarded the check to Hunger Coalition board member Michael Donovan at the grocery store's front end in front of a small crowd, said Executive Director Jeanne Liston.

The Hunger Coalition serves Blaine County residents—44 percent of those served are children—who seek assistance through the organization's food box, food voucher and infant-formula programs. Each of these has recently seen "dramatic increases in usage," Liston said.

As well as the lump sum gift, Albertsons committed to selling food to the Hunger Coalition at discounted prices, a "luxury the organization has not had in the past," Liston said. "The ability to buy food at a discount will significantly impact our operations. We have struggled with rising food prices for months and Albertsons' generosity will relieve that struggle considerably."

In addition, Albertsons' store clerks will encourage shoppers to donate bonus items (buy-one-get-one deals) to the yellow Hunger Coalition food barrels located by the store entrance. Barrels are positioned in all grocery stores throughout the valley year-round.

"Albertsons' donation comes at a particularly opportune time, as many are under-employed during the seasonal slack period and food and gas prices have continued to escalate, putting further strain on resources," Liston said. "People in this valley don't always realize the hardship and malnourishment some of our neighbors face.

"Four hundred and fifty children live in poverty in Blaine County. That 450 kids miss out on three square meals a day in this affluent area is unacceptable. We are truly grateful to Albertsons for taking a stand with us."




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