SOBC – North Shore athletes and volunteers at Safeway during the 2013 campaign.
Special Olympics Canada is partnering with Safeway stores in Western Canada from March 7 to 21, with the aim of supporting the world-class Special Olympics programs in communities across the country and raising awareness about Special Olympics.
From March 7 to 21, Safeway cashiers will be asking their customers to make a difference for Special Olympics by donating $2 at the till. In return, donors will receive 5 AIRMILES Reward Miles.
Last year, $419,595 was raised across the country during the spring campaign which helped support Special Olympics programs throughout Canada. The opportunity to raise awareness is a significant part of the campaign, and we appreciate the SOBC athletes and volunteers who will be in stores sharing their stories on the Special Olympics Awareness Weekend March 15 and 16!
“Through their annual campaign and year-round support, Safeway has had a significant impact on the lives of Special Olympics BC athletes and programs throughout the province,” said Dan Howe, SOBC President and CEO.
“The generosity of Safeway and their staff and customers provides critical support for SOBC’s empowering programs and events for more than 4,300 athletes in 57 communities around the province. And the awareness raised through Safeway’s campaign helps our communities become more inclusive, supportive, and respectful places. We are so grateful to Safeway and all who contribute to the campaign.”
Pictured at right: SOBC – Penticton athletes and volunteers at Safeway in 2013
Jamie Robinson has been an SOBC – Abbotsford athlete for 10 years, and sport has become a big part of her life through Special Olympics. Monday is Club Fit and basketball, Wednesday is rhythmic gymnastics, Thursday is curling and swimming, and Saturday is powerlifting. Her parents Doug and Kathie are Safeway employees, and Jamie is a Safeway alumna who enthusiastically volunteers with the Special Olympics events at Safeway.
“Special Olympics has positively impacted Jamie’s life and helped her create a huge network of friends,” says Kathie Robinson. “It has helped her confidence. And it has opened her eyes to different sports that we would never have introduced her to because we don’t participate in them.”
Pictured at left (L to R): Jamie Robinson, Safeway’s Kyla Cooper, Doug and Kathie Robinson
“As a company that proudly employs hundreds of people living with intellectual disabilities, we see first-hand the benefits the Special Olympics programs have brought to their lives. Our partnership with this amazing organization is a natural fit for us,” said Mike Nash, Vice President, Safeway Operations, Sobeys Inc.
Visit Safeway stores around the province March 7 to 21 to support the campaign and Special Olympics!
http://www.specialolympics.bc.ca/news/2014/03/04/safeway-and-special-olympics-team
