The Weston Family Provides $540,000 to help Restock The Salvation Army's
Shelves

TORONTO , Nov. 5 /CNW/ - The W. Garfield Weston Foundation has donated $540,000 to The Salvation Army in an effort to assist with the dramatic increase in demand for assistance, particularly for its food bank and meal programs. This is part of a one-time $1.8 million grant program launched by the Foundation to support the efforts of over 150 programs run by registered charities. These programs provide the necessities of life to families affected by the current economic downturn.

Twenty-five (25) Salvation Army offices, from British Columbia to Prince Edward Island , have been awarded grants to restock their food banks, introduce new community kitchen programs, upgrade kitchen facilities and expand feeding programs for the homeless, the working poor and seniors who are living on a fixed income. Funds also have been provided for school breakfast programs as well as emergency clothing and shelter.

"The Salvation Army is well known to be one of the most effective organizations in delivering assistance to people in need across Canada . The Weston family and The W. Garfield Weston Foundation are delighted to continue their long history of support for The Salvation Army by making a significant commitment to its vital and hope-giving work," says Garfield Mitchell , Director of the Foundation.

"With demand for food assistance increasing between 10-40% across the country, this generous gift from the Foundation could not have come at a more opportune time, particularly as we enter the Christmas Season," says Graham Moore , Territorial Secretary, for Public Relations and Development of The Salvation Army. "We are most grateful for the continued generosity of the Weston family and the Foundation."

The Weston family controls George Weston Limited which, today, includes not only the family's original baking company, but also Loblaw Companies Limited, a group of food retailing, processing and distribution companies, including the No Frills franchise.

About The Salvation Army

The Salvation Army is an international Christian organization that began its work in Canada in 1882 and has grown to become the largest non-governmental direct provider of social services in the country. The Salvation Army gives hope and support to vulnerable people today and everyday in 400 communities across Canada and 118 countries around the world. The Salvation Army offers practical assistance for children and families, often tending to the basic necessities of life, provides shelter for homeless people and rehabilitation for people who have lost control of their lives to an addiction.

When you give to The Salvation Army, you are investing in the future of marginalized and overlooked people in your community.

News releases, articles and updated information can be found at www.SalvationArmy.ca.

For further information: Andrew Burditt, Territorial Public Relations Director, The Salvation Army, [phone], [email protected], www.SalvationArmy.ca