In 2008, the Holiday Match total was $1.1 million. "Every year, I am awed by the generosity [image-nocss] of our customers," said Stewart's Foundation president, Susan Law Dake. "We are expecting another year with well over 1,000 applications for grants because of the tight economy. The good news is I believe our customers will rise to the challenge."
The purpose of Holiday Match is to encourage individual giving and broaden the base of support for local charities. Stewart's Holiday Match is a 501c3 foundation; all donations are tax-deductible. Stewart's accepts funds from groups or businesses, but only matches individual donations.
"Our goal is to get applications out to children's groups in need of funds, as well as encourage individual donations which will be matched," added Dake.
Local organizations benefiting children can pick up an application throughout the holidays at any Stewart's Shop; the deadline for submission is Jan. 31, 2010. All groups applying must be locally based, benefit children under 18 and be a qualified, charitable 501c3 organization. A brochure will be available throughout the holidays at Stewart's Shops which lists all 1,317 children's organizations in their 30 county area that received funds last season.
Saratoga Springs, N.Y.-based Stewart's Shops operates 327 locations, including 270 with gasoline, in upstate New York and southern Vermont. Stewart's is known for offering milk, ice cream, coffee, food to go, gasoline and other convenience items. It has integrated manufacturing and distribution systemsit makes or distributes three-quarters of what it sell at its plant in Greenfield, N.Y.
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