Woolworths CEO pledges substantial support for drought relief
If possible, please get behind this amazingly generous concept from Woolies.
There is a huge amount of pain currently in Rural Communities, some reported, most of it not.
In the Eastern States there are reports of up to four farmer suicides per week.
Make no mistake, this is not something to make light of and the generosity of Woolworth’s and their customers should be fully supported.
Record low rainfall throughout Southern Western Australia (ie not here so it isn't a vested interest, the dollars won't come anywhere near me!) and the Eastern States has caused a huge upheaval in the Industry and this is one way we can all help to sustain our own food supply.
Without farmers you don't eat!
I will be shopping at Newman Woolies for my household and Industry on Tuesday the 23rd.
Woolworths CEO pledges substantial support for drought relief
Entire day's profits to be given to Australian farming families in need, ongoing commitment to sustainable agricultural development.
As part of a wider commitment to supporting Australian rural communities, on January 23, 2007, Woolworths will donate its entire supermarkets profits from all Australian Woolworths & Safeway supermarkets, for the day to the Country Women's Association to help farming families with household bills and for research into sustainable farming practices.
Launching the initiative on ABC's Country Hour program today, Woolworths CEO Michael Luscombe said the Woolworths National Drought Action Day is expected to raise in excess of three million dollars. 100% of the donation will be directed to the Country Women's Association.
Mr Luscombe said there is an immediate need to support Australian farming families, "Every Australian is starting to feel the real impact of the drought and unless we act now, the unique rural heritage of Australia will be under threat.
"Woolworths recognises the immediate issues facing Australian farmers and the intrinsic link that this has on all of our daily lives. There are two key issues that we must address – the financial hardships faced by rural families right now, and the longer term viability of our agricultural industry in a changing and unpredictable climate.
"At this point in time, Australia is one of the few countries in the world which is relatively self sufficient in terms of its fresh food supply. We will only be able to stay this way if we embrace a more sustainable approach to farming.
With the decline in rainfall gradually spreading over eastern and southern Australia during 2006 and the near total failure of the late-winter and spring rains in August*, Mr Luscombe said that all suppliers are feeling the pain.
Mr Luscombe encouraged community participation at all levels, "We are calling on Australians to take action against the drought by joining with us on the January 23 to show support for our farmers," he said.
National President of the Country Women's Association, Ms Lesley Young, said "The drought is affecting every one of us in different ways. This initiative gives us hope now, and for the future of Australian farming," she said.
"On behalf of Australian farming families in Australia we are grateful to Woolworths for raising awareness of this critical issue." Ms Young said.
*Statement on Drought. National Climate Centre, Bureau of Meteorology. November 2006
For further information please contact:
Luke Schepen at Edelman
Phone: 02 9291 3337
Mobile: 0400 798 786
Email: luke.schepen@edelman.com
Mark Bottay
Phone: 02 9291 3356
Mobile: 0421 958 988
Email: marcus.bottay@edelman.com
www.woolworths.com.au
