Sobeys flood relief initiative raises more than $280,000 for Southern Alberta

Sobeys customers give back to rebuild communities and help those in need

EDMONTON, July 24, 2013 /CNW/ - Sobeys launched the Flood Relief Round Up on June 21, 2013, an in-store campaign that allowed customers to round their purchase to the next dollar with proceeds going to the Canadian Red Cross in support of flood relief efforts in Southern Alberta. The campaign ran until July 18, and Sobeys customers donated $180,492.78, with Sobeys matching $100,000.

"Thanks to the generousity of our customers shopping at our Sobeys and IGA stores across western Canada, we raised more than $280,000 for the Canadian Red Cross," said Sam Bartucci, General Manager for Sobeys West. "In times of crisis, it is inspiring to see how people go above and beyond and selflessly give to those in need. Our funds will support the important flood relief work being done by the Red Cross in Alberta."

In addition to the round up campaign, Sobeys hosted community barbeques and served as collection sites for local area food banks and community organizations. Sobeys stores in impacted communities pitched in immediately, providing fresh drinking water and essential supplies to those in need as well as preparing hot meals for emergency crews.

"One of the most compelling stories I heard was from High River and how our store employees risked the rising flood waters to stay behind and secure the store," said Bartucci. "They were eventually airlifted from the roof and thanks to their bravery we were able to reopen much sooner than expected and start serving the community again."

Sobeys High River reopened on July 20.

About Sobeys Inc.
Proudly Canadian, with headquarters in Stellarton, Nova Scotia, Sobeys has been serving the food shopping needs of Canadians for 106 years. A wholly-owned subsidiary of Empire Company Limited (TSX:EMP.A), Sobeys owns or franchises more than 1,500 stores in all 10 provinces under retail banners that include Sobeys, IGA, Foodland, FreshCo, and Thrifty Foods, as well as Lawton's Drug Stores. Sobeys and its franchise affiliates employ more than 95,000 people. The company's goal is to be widely recognized as the best food retailer and workplace environment in Canada. More information on Sobeys Inc. can be found at www.sobeyscorporate.com

SOURCE: Sobeys West

Keri Scobie, Communications Manager, West
Sobeys Inc.
(780)-486-8576
[email protected]