Stonewall’s Red River Coop food store recently won a contest that helps take a bite out of hunger through a contribution to the local food bank.
Store manager Ron Harder explained that they received ballots in a draw when customers bought participating Kraft Heinz products from Oct. 2 to 29 — and the Stonewall store was selected as a winner.
“Red River Coop Stonewall was fortunate in being one of the stores that received $2,000 to purchase Kraft Heinz products to be donated to our local food bank,” he said.
“We have brought in an assortment of products from pasta sauce to Kool-Aid Jammers. We tried to fill a variety of needs.”
Kraft Heinz pledged a five-year commitment to provide food banks Canada with $20 million of food donations to support Canadians. Last year, the company committed to offering $50,000 in free Kraft product to FCL Co-op stores. The winning stores can then donate these products directly from their business to their local food bank.
For Harder, it was great news to find out the Stonewall store was one of the winners.
“I was very happy. I know that there are a number of people and families that are struggling economically,” he said.
“This win will help alleviate some hardships for folks because this is a donation that goes straight to the community of Stonewall and is a local benefit.”
Karen Chaboyer co-chairs the Interlake Food Bank with her husband Mike. She said there’s an increasing need for the monthly hampers they provide to residents in local communities including Stonewall, Warren, Grosse Isle, Balmoral and Stony Mountain.
“We usually get about 45 families and rising,” she said. “This is food for the clients, and it’s certainly very appreciated.”
Sara Fournier, vice-president of food and pharmacy operations, said Red River Co-op embodies the true spirit of community.
“We are dedicated to supporting local organizations and this is another perfect example,” she said.
“Customers can enjoy fresh produce and quality products while taking pride knowing they are supporting a business that values community. Ron and his team are thrilled to be able to give to the local food bank.”
Likewise, Harder and his team believe in the importance of giving back.
“We are a local business that values what ‘local’ means,” he said. “Our community supports us by shopping at our stores, and we want to reciprocate that support by giving back to the community.”
Tribune Photo by Jo-Anne Procter
