Whole Foods Supports Nonprofit Serving Homeless With Mix of Charitable Programs

The Callowhill and South Street locations of Whole Foods Market have raised nearly $22,000 in cash and in-kind donations of food for Bethesda Project, a nonprofit that serves Philadelphia’s homeless through housing, shelters and services.

“It’s important for all of us—organizations and businesses alike—to support the needs of our most marginalized citizens,” said Hentzi Elek, chief executive officer for Bethesda Project, in a press release. “Partnerships like these fuel the fight against hunger and homelessness.”

The money was raised through two different programs, both powered by Whole Foods customers. The Nickels for Nonprofits, which raised, $2,405.75, allows customers to donate 5 cents per every paper or plastic bag they don’t use because they brought their own bags. The Feed4More campaign, which raised $19,587.63, gives customers the opportunity to donate a $10 bag of at-cost food, plucked from Whole Foods’ in-house discount line of products.

Donations will be divided among 13 housing and shelters sites operated by Bethesda Project, a few of which are located nearby both Whole Foods locations.

Whole Foods has a history of using multiple approaches to raising charitable funds for local organizations. Last December, the South Street location held a “5% Day,” in which five percent of the total sales for the day, up to $5,000, were donated to Ready, Willing & Able, a nonprofit which provides housing and job opportunities to formerly homeless men. 5% Days alternate between funding national and local nonprofits.

Photo via Flickr user Paul Swansen