Military families to benefit from sales of patriotic tote at Goody’s

Business

Discussion

February 27, 2011

Staff Suwannee Democrat The Suwannee Democrat Sun Feb 27, 2011, 03:47 PM EST

Live Oak — In a show of support for U.S. military families, Goody’s stores are now selling a patriotic-themed, reusable shopping tote with all proceeds benefitting Operation Homefront, a national organization providing emergency financial assistance and other vital support services to the families of U.S. soldiers. Customers can purchase the shopping tote at any Goody’s store for $5 and 100 percent of the funds are donated to the charity.

Created especially for this effort, the sturdy reusable tote features an American flag design and the slogan: “Helping Our Military & Environment.” Making it an even bigger win-win, Goody’s is giving every shopper who purchases the tote a $5 Bounce Back Reward good on any $25 purchase.

As additional support for military families, Goody’s is introducing a military discount program. Active, inactive and retired military members with valid military identification are eligible for a 15 percent discount everyday.

“In every hometown across our nation, we each know a family member or neighbor who is serving our country in the military. We are proud to show our support for these heroes and we encourage our customers to join us,” said Andy Hall, president and CEO of Stage Stores Inc., the parent company of Goody’s.

Operation Homefront is a national non-profit organization that provides military families with aid in the form of grocery store gift cards, short-term transitional living at Operation Homefront villages, donated vehicles for those who can’t afford one, and physical and emotional support for wounded soldiers and their families. Founded in 2002, Operation Homefront has 24 chapters throughout the US. More about the organization and its services is found at their website www.operationhomefront.net.

“Generous partners like Stage Stores make it possible for Operation Homefront to provide vital aid to the families of military members and Wounded Warriors,” said Jim Knotts, president and CEO of Operation Homefront. “We thank them for this opportunity to generate funds and community awareness that will improve the lives of these heroes.”