Safeway employees raise over $15,000 to help homeless families find shelter

Calgary, AB – Recently the employees of the Westhills Safeway store in Calgary celebrated the successful conclusion of the 2004 Because We Care program by presenting their fundraising cheque to Inn From the Cold (IFTC), a volunteer society providing homeless families with shelter and hope. The Westhills staff raised $15,182 to help IFTC’s work connecting churches with the homeless in Calgary.

  The campaign began in October 2003 with employees of each Safeway selecting a local charity or cause to support within their community. For the following nine months, employees and charity representatives worked together to raise money for a common cause. Many stores, like the Westhills location held tried and true money-makers like bake sales and parking lot parties, supplemented by raffles, the sale of special Show Your Heart coupon books and weekend barbeques.

  "Safeway is committed to making a difference. Since 1998, the customers and employees of Safeway have raised $9.7 million to help charities and tens of thousands of Canadians in need," said Betty Kellsey, Public Affairs Manager for Alberta. "Its an achievement we are thrilled to announce and proud to support through our annual Because We Care Campaign. Together with you, we’re making a difference."

  The Because We Care program has helped a wide range of community-based causes and charities across Alberta. "We are proud of our employees. Our store employees drive this unique program from selecting a needy charity, to fundraising, and finally making the cheque presentation. Without the volunteerism, dedication and enthusiasm of our employees and the support they receive from our customers, this program would not exist," stated Kellsey.

For further information about Inn From the Cold, call 263-8384.