Raley’s Customers Contribute more than $74,000 to Tornado Relief Effort

~Donations Going to American Red Cross and Salvation Army for Oklahoma Victims~

On Monday, August 12, 2013, Raley’s Family of Fine Stores announced that $74,220.44 was raised in just four weeks through its Food For Families collection boxes that were designated for the Oklahoma Tornado Relief effort during the month of June.

“Once again, when America is hit with a tragedy, Americans respond and the money generously donated by Raley’s customers and employees will have a very positive impact on the lives of so many people trying to rebuild and recover,” said Jennie Teel-Wolter, community relations manager for Raley’s Family of Fine Stores.  She added, “I am very proud to present these checks to the American Red Cross and the Salvation Army on behalf of all who contributed.”

The donation will be split between the American Red Cross and the Salvation Army with each organization receiving a check for $37,110.22 to be used in their relief efforts in Oklahoma.  On May 20^th, a Category EF 5 tornado with winds topping 210 miles per hour touched down near Moore, Oklahoma, for thirty-nine minutes cutting a 17 mile-long path of destruction which was more than a mile-wide at its peak.  Twenty three people were killed and more than 375 people injured. 

“We are humbled by the generosity demonstrated by the customers and employees of Raley’s,” said Kathleen Weis, Chief Executive Officer of the American Red Cross Capital Region. “It is through these efforts that the Red Cross is able to provide care, comfort, and aid in the long term recovery needs of the thousands impacted by the Oklahoma tornadoes. A big thank you to Raley’s and all of those who donated for their support.”

As part of the fundraising effort, Raley’s absorbed all administrative costs to ensure that one hundred percent of the money raised will reach the victims of the Oklahoma tornados.  To learn more about the Food For Families program, visit www.foodforfamilies.org.

“This is another great example of the incredible generosity of this community,” said Major Bill Dickinson, Salvation Army Divisional Commander of the Del Oro Division. “The Salvation Army is truly grateful for efforts made by Raley’s and its customers and employees.  This will go a long way to provide any assistance now and in the future to the families and individuals in Oklahoma.”