FROM STAFF REPORTS

CHELSEA – Winn-Dixie representatives recently donated $2,744 to the Hope for Gabe Foundation from monies raised through Winn-Dixie’s Community Donation Program.

The funds were raised by Winn-Dixie store number 569, located at 150 Chelsea Corners in Chelsea. The public played a large part in helping raise money for this organization, according to a press release.

Winn-Dixie’s Community Donation Program encourages stores to select organizations that they would like to support within the communities in which they operate.

Winn-Dixie representatives chose the Hope for Gabe Foundation because they wanted to help a family in their own community. They presented a check to Shelby County resident Gabe Griffin and his family on May 30.

The Hope for Gabe Foundation raises money for research and support of Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, a neuromuscular disorder that affects one in 3,500 young males. The foundation was started in 2008 when Gabe was diagnosed with the disease, which degenerates muscles until young boys can no longer move or breathe, and decreases their life expectancies to late teens or early 20s.

Nationwide, Winn-Dixie customers donated $153,661.68 to 75 nonprofit organizations within the grocer’s operating area during a six-week period this spring when making grocery purchases.  All funds raised will benefit local community organizations to enhance the lives of children, improve health, education and nourish the hungry in their communities.