Bend grocery raises funds for Red Cross

In times of disaster, preparedness and training can make a big difference. C.E. Lovejoy’s Brookswood Market and its shoppers proudly supported local preparedness earlier this spring when they partnered together to raise $1,000 for the Oregon Mountain River Chapter of the American Red Cross.

In support of National Red Cross Month (March 2013), in March and April, patrons of the locally owned grocery store were asked at the check-out counters to consider donating $1.00 to the American Red Cross. For every dollar donated by its customers, Lovejoy’s donated an additional $0.50.

In May, Lovejoy’s representatives presented the check to the Executive Director of the Oregon Mountain River Chapter of the American Red Cross (ARC), Lisa Stroup.

“The ARC is extremely grateful for the support of C.E. Lovejoy’s and their customers,” said Stroup. “Local Red Cross volunteers are ready to respond 24/7 when needed for disasters such as house fires, wildfire, flood, and more. Our volunteers are also trained and ready to help other communities when large disasters occur. “

“The ARC is funded by the generosity of the American people, without the support of businesses like Lovejoy’s we could not do the work we need to do each day. Disaster victims often leave their homes with nothing. Donations allow us to respond quickly, offering a safe place to sleep, warm meals, needed items, and emotional support. In order to respond when the time comes, we must train volunteers, arrange for shelter locations, and procure supplies in advance.

“Disaster Preparedness training is a key part of our work throughout the year. The Red Cross is available to work with your business or group on your Preparedness Plan. Being prepared is directly related to how well we can recover from a disaster. Call us about our free ‘Together We Prepare’ training. Thank you Lovejoy’s for all you do for our community!”

Lovejoy’s Manager Diana Franko is a big proponent of the ARC’s response and preparedness initiatives and sees them at work locally.

“Our long-term partnership with the ARC has literally helped people right down the road from our store. And, what’s most impressive is that all of the money raised and donated here stays with the Oregon Mountain River Chapter to directly help our neighbors,” she said. “Additionally, we emphasize the campaign year-round with brochures that provide an aisle-by-aisle guide to items the recommended to have on hand in case of a disaster. Our customers now recognize the Red Cross for more than just their blood services and they are enthusiastic supporters, making this a true community effort. We are looking forward to increasing the donation in 2014!”

C.E. Lovejoy’s Brookswood Market is Bend’s newest full-service, locally-owned and operated grocery store. The store offers high-quality fresh produce, a complete meat department, freshly-baked goods, local dairy products and specialty cheeses, a full-service gourmet deli, and a wide selection of beers and wines. The store is located at 19530 Amber Meadow Drive, in Bend, off Brookswood Boulevard near Elk Meadow Elementary School in the Brookswood Meadow Plaza. For more information, call 541-388-1188. Visit us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/celovejoys, on Twitter at @celovejoys or on the web at www.celovejoys.com.