Expanded Give-A-Gallon Runs Through Late June

Last week, we told you about the Dairy Farmers of Washington teaming up with Yoke’s for the Give-a-Gallon campaign; an effort to get fresh dairy products in the hands of local families in need.  The promotion has been expanded to include Safeway and Albertsons stores across the Inland Northwest.  To participate, look for the scan cards located on signage in the dairy section or near the cash register at your local Safeway or Albertsons store.

This is the first year Dairy Farmers of Washington is partnering with Safeway and Albertsons for the Give-a-Gallon program.  Sara Osborne, Public Affairs Director for Safeway, is excited to kick off the campaign and says this program solidifies their commitment to community.

“Safeway and Albertsons are pleased to be partnering with Dairy Farmers of Washington to help provide more milk to the local food banks throughout the state,” Osbourne stated. “Our stores play a significant role in fighting hunger within the communities we serve, and we welcome this opportunity to invite our customers to join us to make certain no child is without this important part of a nutritious diet.”

The summer months can be an extra challenging time for some families. Children lose access to meals provided in schools which is why Sarah MacPherson, Food Sourcing Manager at Second Harvest, stresses the importance of being able to provide families milk all year round, especially in the summer.

“Milk is critical for children in the summer because they no longer have consistent access to milk at school breakfast and lunch. Second Harvest is in a great position to get donated milk directly to people in need through our Mobile Markets. Huge refrigerated trucks travel direct from our facility to community distribution sites assuring people get milk at its freshest,” MacPherson explained. “Thanks to the generosity of shoppers who purchase milk through the Give-a-Gallon program, Second Harvest can provide this wholesome, protein rich food to hungry families, children, and the elderly.”

Scott Kinney, DFW CEO, is proud to take part in a program that provides assistance to those who need it most.

“The Washington dairy community has been involved in Give-a-Gallon programs across the state for the last 3 years and the number of families and children we’ve been able to help is heartwarming,” Kinney said. “Food insecurity is a huge problem in our state and Washington dairy farmers want to ensure everyone has access to fresh, nutritious milk regardless of their financial situation.”

For a list of participating stores and locations: http://bit.ly/1SFCIMB.

The Dairy Farmers of Washington organization leads statewide advertising and public relations programs, hunger relief initiatives, retail promotions, and nutrition education. Dairy farmers in Washington State fund DFW.

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