Labatt donates $20,000 to Canadian Red Cross for wildfire relief efforts in B.C.

KELOWNA, BC, Nov. 18, 2015 /CNW/ - Today, Labatt Breweries of Canada announced it will donate $20,000 to the Canadian Red Cross to support victims affected by wildfires in B.C.   

The donation is a result of a promotional partnership with Labatt's Kokanee brand and BC Liquor Stores. During the month of August, $1 from every 24-can case of Kokanee purchased in BC Liquor Stores was directed to wildfire relief efforts. Today, that money is being donated to the Canadian Red Cross to provide ongoing assistance to victims of the wildfires across the province.

"The wildfires had a devastating effect on B.C.'s interior. Through this program, Labatt is able to help provide relief to those that are still recovering from the after effects," said Jeff Ryan, Senior Director of Corporate Affairs. "Since 1847, Labatt has provided assistance to communities in need and we are committed to giving back to those areas hit hardest by natural disasters."  

"BC Liquor Stores are extremely proud to have partnered with Labatt and the Kokanee brand for this meaningful campaign," said Mike Kakoske, Senior Store Manager for the Orchard Park BC Liquor Store. "These funds further build on the $102,000 we raised earlier this year for the Red Cross to help our neighbours affected by the wildfires."

"Recovering from a disaster is a long journey for many families and individuals," said Kimberley Nemrava, Red Cross Vice President for B.C. and Yukon. "We are very thankful for the support of Labatt, BC Liquor Stores and customers in every community who donated to help their neighbours affected by these wildfires."

Labatt is continuously looking for ways to support fellow Canadians during times of devastation. Labatt's Canadian Disaster Relief Program, established in 2012, provides safe drinking water to Canadian communities during natural disasters. This past summer, the program donated 48,000 cans of water to thousands of residents and fire fighters affected by forest fires in Western Canada.

To donate to the Canadian Red Cross, please visit www.redcross.ca.

About Labatt Breweries of Canada

Labatt Breweries is one of Canada's founding businesses and oldest brewers.  Established by John Kinder Labatt in London, Ontario in 1847, Labatt today has more than 3,000 employees and six breweries across the country and a portfolio of 60 quality beers, including Kokanee, Budweiser, Alexander Keith's, Labatt Blue, Stella Artois and Corona.  As a part of the Anheuser-Busch InBev family, Labatt is committed to being The Best Beer Company Bringing People Together for a Better World, making a positive contribution through multiple programs that support its communities, promote responsible drinking and protect the environment.

SOURCE Labatt Breweries of Canada

Briar Wells, Labatt Breweries of Canada, [email protected], 416-361-5247; Media Profile: Sarah Pattillo, [email protected], 416-342-1837