FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
HOLIDAY SHOPPERS SUPPORT HUNGRY WITH MACY’S CARD
Macy’s “Thanks for Sharing” raises $14.7 million, some of which goes to local food banks
Shoreline, WA (Thursday, February 5, 2009) – The holiday spirit lingers in Western Washington as Food Lifeline, Washington’s largest hunger relief agency, is able to spread more comfort and joy to local food banks after receiving more than $145,000 from Macy’s West. The Macy’s nationwide “Thanks for Sharing” holiday gifts reward program ran from September 21st through December 31st, and shoppers in the mood to share could enroll for $25, with $10 of the fee going to local charities, like Food Lifeline. Completely surprised by the results, Food Lifeline is uplifted by the outpouring of generosity from the community and can truly say, “Thanks for sharing” and for supporting efforts to feed hungry people.
Linda Nageotte, Food Lifeline President and CEO says, “We all felt an economic crunch going into this holiday season. Macy’s gave its shoppers a unique way to shop for the holidays while supporting our mission, and it’s clear that the combination worked.”
Raising $14.7 million overall, a portion of the proceeds were divided between 39 Feeding America network members in the Macy’s West service area, including Food Lifeline. The campaign speaks to the level of giving in the community which is visibly widespread despite of the fragility of the economy. With these funds, Food Lifeline can provide 725,000 meals to hungry people—that’s enough food to feed a city the size of Mt. Vernon for one whole week. Food Lifeline is looking forward to partnering with Macy’s through Feeding America in the giving season each year, and is hopeful that the holiday spirit will continue to thrive, bringing tidings of more food for hungry people all year long.