Tokens for charity donations

A local supermarket is preparing to launch its Peninsula Community Chest Token Donation program to assist local charities, groups and community organisations.

Ettalong Beach IGA store owner Mr Jim Bohle said all local charities and not-for-profit organisations were welcome to apply for a token box in the store.

"The success of the program will depend on the support of the members of each group who participate in the program," Mr Bohle said.

"With every $20 spent in the store, excluding cigarettes due to government regulation, a token will be issued to the customer to place in the box of their chosen charity.

"Boxes will be emptied quarterly and a cheque will then be issued to each of the participating charities."

Mr Bohle said the supermarket hoped to raise more than $20,000 this year.

He said Ettalong Beach IGA had already donated to charities and organisations in the local area and looked forward to contributing much more with the introduction of the token donation program.

The most recent donation went to the Empire Bay Rural Fire Service and Peninsula Little Athletics who each received $1000 from Ettalong Beach IGA.

Peninsula Little Athletics publicity officer Ms Jodie McMarthy said the group was extremely thankful for the supermarket's generous donation that would go towards sporting equipment and trophies.

Empire Bay Rural Fire Service will most likely use the funds to update its hand held radio system, according to deputy captain Mr Robert Maddon.

"There is always something needing to be replaced and fixed," Mr Maddon said.

For more information about participating in the Peninsula Community Chest Token Donation program contact 4341 1026 for an application form.

Press release, 21 Jan 2010 Jim Bohle, Ettalong Beach IGA