CAMDEN, N.J., December 11, 2008 – Campbell Soup employees brightened the holidays by donating 1,600 gifts to needy families in Camden. More than 870 Campbell employees adopted 80 families this year as part of the company’s Adopt-A Family program. Today, employees loaded school buses and vans with the gifts worth approximately $50,000-all of which will be delivered to Camden-based agencies that will distribute the items to families in time for the holidays.
“Each year, we have great enthusiasm for this program. Campbell employees recognize how important it is to contribute to our community, especially during the holiday season and especially this year,” said Jerry Buckley, Chairman of the Campbell Soup Foundation. “We know that programs such as this make a real difference in people’s lives.”
Now in its 14th year, Campbell’s Adopt-A-Family program works with local agencies to improve the quality of life for Camden residents. Approximately 400 Camden residents have been identified and matched with Campbell employees who were provided a wish list and clothing sizes so they could shop for specific gifts. The 1,600 gifts include clothing, shoes, books, toys, sporting goods, video games and household items including a washing machine and a bed.
Campbell employees made a special delivery to one recipient, Dorcas Dixon, 29, of Camden. Dixon, who was homeless until recently, received a bed that she desperately needed. Employees also delivered bags of toys and other household items for her four children who are 9, 7, 3 and 1 years old.
“We are very grateful to Campbell Soup Company and its employees for being so generous this year,” said Dixon. “I can’t wait to see the faces of my children on Christmas morning.”The program is part of the Campbell Soup Foundation’s work in Camden, the company’s home for nearly 140 years. The Foundation gives approximately $1 million annually to fund community initiatives in Camden. In addition to the gifts from employees, a grant from the Foundation provides supermarket gift cards to all participating families. Partners in the Adopt-a-Family program include Camden-based agencies New Beginnings United Methodist Church, Hispanic Family Center, Church of the Holy Name, Victory Temple, St. Joseph’s Pro-Cathedral, the Center for Family Services and The Bridge.
About Campbell Soup Company
Campbell Soup Company is a global manufacturer and marketer of high-quality foods and simple meals, including soup, baked snacks, and healthy beverages. Founded in 1869, the company has a portfolio of market-leading brands, including “Campbell’s,” “Pepperidge Farm,” “Arnott’s,” and “V8.” For more information on the company, visit Campbell’s website at www.campbellsoup.com.
CONTACT:Amanda Tolino Campbell Soup Company (856) 342-5264
Susan Buehler/Kim Maialetti Bellevue Communications Group(215) 893-4284 or (215) 893-4279
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