The Safeway Foundation Launches Breast Cancer Fundraising Campaign; Company Set To Raise Nearly $4 Million During October

Business Wire, Oct 7, 2004

PLEASANTON, Calif. -- Safeway Inc. (NYSE:SWY) formally launched its annual breast cancer fundraising campaign with a kickoff event at the company's Pleasanton headquarters. The company plans to raise nearly $4 million during the month of October for a range of breast cancer research and treatment programs in its operating area.

"Breast cancer is a major health threat to women, and we've made a significant commitment to raising funds for programs geared to finding a cure and raising awareness," said Safeway Executive Vice President and Chairman, Larree Renda. In the last three years Safeway has raised more than $7 million for breast cancer charities.

During October Safeway provides retail customers with a variety of opportunities to contribute to the cause. Shoppers are given an opportunity to donate through checkstand "tear off" pads located at each of the company's checkstands in each of its stores. The company is also selling rainbow colored wristbands with the "live long" logo. Safeway stores are also holding a range of additional retail based fundraising activities including, hot dog, book and root beer float sales. Safeway also sponsors ten Susan Komen Foundation "Races for the Cure" across the U.S.

The Safeway Foundation will distribute 100 percent of the funds raised to organizations that conduct research or provide services and treatment for breast cancer in our local communities.

In addition to the fundraising efforts, Safeway will be raising awareness of breast cancer, which is the second leading cause of cancer deaths among women. Messages will appear during October on milk cartons, grocery bags, the company's in-store radio network, electronic point of sale screens at the checkstand and the company's website.

Safeway Inc. is a Fortune 50 company and one of the largest food and drug retailers in North America based on sales. The company operates more than 1,800 stores in the United States and Canada and had annual sales of $35.6 billion in 2003. The company's common stock is traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol SWY.