Whole Foods Donates $12,000 to Gloria Gemma Foundation

PAWTUCKET, RI – (October 19, 2012) This week, Whole Foods Market announced a $12,104.34 donation to the Gloria Gemma Breast Cancer Resource Foundation, the result of a recent “5% Day” promotion. Three Rhode Island Whole Foods Markets—the University Heights and Waterman Street locations in Providence and the Cranston location—participated in a 5% Day on October 9, donating five percent of that day’s net sales to the Pawtucket-based Foundation.

“At Whole Foods Market, we proudly support non-profits in our community,” explained Whole Foods Market University Heights Marketing Team Leader Bonnie Combs. “The results of this three-store 5% Day prove that our customers generously shopped to support the mission of the Gloria Gemma Breast Cancer Resource Foundation.”

Gloria Gemma Breast Cancer Resource Foundation Executive Director Maria Gemma and Director of Development Gary Calvino accepted the donation Wednesday morning from Bonnie Combs, Waterman Street Marketing Team Leader Shawna Lawton, and Cranston Marketing Team Leader Jewel Healy.

“The Foundation is absolutely delighted to have partners like Whole Foods Market that understand our mission,” said Maria Gemma. “Too many national chains will only support national organizations, especially during promotions related to National Breast Cancer Awareness Month.”

Gemma continued, “There’s no rule that says big, national brands can’t support local non-profits. Whole Foods Market is again leading by example and proving that national names can indeed have a very positive local impact on the individuals they serve. The Foundation is committed to using donations like this to support our free programs and services for women and men right here in our community.”

Bonnie Combs agreed, “We have enjoyed working with the Foundation over the years to educate their community about the benefits of healthy eating, green cleaning and using natural cosmetics and body care products and we are pleased to support their efforts providing resources for those diagnosed with breast cancer.”

About the Gloria Gemma Breast Cancer Resource Foundation
The Gloria Gemma Foundation was established in 2004 in loving memory of Gloria J. Gemma and to honor her courageous fight against breast cancer. The organization’s mission is to raise breast cancer awareness; increase breast health education; enhance the quality of life for breast cancer patients, as well as their families and friends; and generate funding for local breast health programs. For more information, please call 401-861-HERO (4376) or visit www.gloriagemma.org.

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