Monday 29 January 2013: Woolworths has announced it will match customer donations to the Salvation Army's flood appeal with a goal to raise $1 million in one week for disaster affected communities.

From today, and for the next week, Woolworths will match customer donations made through checkouts, dollar-for-dollar, until $1 million is raised.

Managing Director of Woolworths supermarkets, Tjeerd Jegen, said the funds would provide much-needed assistance across Queensland and northern New South Wales, "By matching our customer's donations Woolworths will double the support provided to communities across flood affected areas.

"The aim is to raise up to $1 million in one week for the Salvation Army through a combination of customer donations and Woolworths matching those donations dollar-for-dollar."

If a customer adds, for example, a $25 donation to their grocery bill anytime in the next week Woolies' will match it leading to a $50 total donation to the Salvos.

Customers can donate to the Salvation Army when shopping at Woolworths, either through any checkout or when ordering online.

"Funds donated to the Salvation Army will provide both immediate support and longer term grants to help people on the road to recovery," said Jegen.

"Woolworths and the Salvation Army have a strong relationship and have worked together for over three years providing disaster relief to Australian communities, most recently in bushfire ravaged areas of Tasmania."

Salvation Army spokesperson, Major Bruce Harmer, said, "Coming off the back of the destructive fires in southeast Australia, these storms have come as a shock to many. The destruction to property as well as the emotional impact on individuals and families is of great concern to us."

Woolworths is working around the clock to get stock to Queensland stores currently impacted by severe weather conditions as well as providing practical assistance to the emergency services.

"Many communities along the East Coast are suffering but practical help is as simple as donating a few dollars at any Woolworths store," said Jegen.

For further information please contact the Woolworths Press Office on 02 8885 1033.

  • Woolworths to match customer donations to Salvos flood appeal29/01/2013Woolworths to match customer donations to Salvos flood appeal
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