New Leaf and its partner MBA Poultry, the producer of Smart Chicken®, have donated 3.7 tons of poultry to area food banks. Of the total, 4,040 pounds were donated to Second Harvest Food Bank of Santa Cruz County, 2,850 pounds to the Second Harvest Food Bank of Santa Clara and San Mateo Counties, and 530 pounds to the Alameda County Community Food Bank. The 3.7 ton poultry donation, delivered January 24, is a 12% increase over last year.
Since 2006, a total of 16.7 tons of poultry has been donated by New Leaf through MBA Poultry’s Smart Giving program. For every ten pounds of air-chilled Smart Chicken purchased by New Leaf customers during November, one pound of Smart Chicken is donated by New Leaf to a local food bank.
“Demand is higher than ever in Santa Cruz County and meat is our most expensive food item to purchase for our 200 member agencies and programs, so New Leaf’s donation is very significant," said Second Harvest Food Bank CEO Willy Elliott-McCrea. “We are humbled by the outstanding support that New Leaf has bestowed on our community over these many years."
“New Leaf is very appreciative of MBA Poultry’s generous support of those in need in our community. We are also very appreciative of our customers for joining with us to make this annual effort for food banks such a success," said Scott Roseman, co-owner, New Leaf Community Markets.
About New Leaf Community Markets
A natural grocery store with eight stores, New Leaf has been serving the community for 28 years. New Leaf is committed to offering customers choices that have the most beneficial impact on their health and the health of the environment. Helping customers make informed decisions is an integral part of this commitment. New Leaf’s mission, to nourish and sustain our community, is reflected in the 10 percent of profits given annually to support local nonprofits working to improve the quality of life. Connect with New Leaf at www.newleaf.com.
About Second Harvest Food Bank of Santa Cruz County
Founded in 1972, Second Harvest Food Bank Santa Cruz County was the first food bank in California and is the second oldest in the nation. Second Harvest’s mission is to end hunger and malnutrition by educating and involving the community. Through our network of more than 200 agencies and programs and over 3,000 volunteers, we distribute over 8 million pounds of food annually to working poor families, children, and seniors. www.thefoodbank.org
