The SAQ presents more than $500,000 to the Food Banks of Quebec network

The SAQ’s second fundraising campaign of the year for the Food Banks of Quebec (FBQ) network was held in SAQ stores, where, between August 27 and September 2, customers were encouraged to make a contribution at checkout. Totalling $572,806, the donation also includes the $12 delivery fees, given in full to the FBQ, for online orders made between May 31 and July 11, 2020. The amount corresponds to 1.7 million meals for people in need.

Sharing more than ever with those in need
For Catherine Dagenais, President and Chief Executive Officer of the SAQ, it was important to hold a second fundraising campaign this fall, especially in view of the success of last spring’s campaign: “We are aware of the impact the pandemic is having on many Quebec citizens. More than ever during this extraordinary crisis, Quebecers’ generosity is making a difference in the lives of the less fortunate. As a government corporation, it is vital that we be there, that we share and contribute to the well-being of the community. I offer my sincere thanks to our teams for their dedication and enthusiasm and to all our donors for their outstanding support and solidarity.”

For her part, Julie Marchand, Executive Director at Food Banks of Quebec, was quick to focus on the support of SAQ employees: “The SAQ’s 11-year record of involvement is incredible! With each campaign, we are moved by the generosity of SAQ employees and customers. This donation will be shared with our member organizations across Quebec for use in the fight against food insecurity. Now that it’s back-to-school season with all the related expenses, not having to worry about where your next meal is coming from will be a huge relief to many families. Once again, we thank the SAQ for its generosity and commitment.”

Financial support for 11 years and counting
For 11 years now, the generosity of its customers and involvement of its employees have enabled the SAQ to provide more than $8 million to the FBQ, including $3.4 million since the start of the pandemic. The funds are used not only to meet new requests for assistance that the FBQ receives but also to build projects and acquire equipment to be able to support people in need. It should be noted that the SAQ is the largest financial contributor to the organization, which supports food banks in every corner of the province.

About the Food Banks of Quebec network
The Food Banks of Quebec (FBQ) network is now more than 30 years old. With the support of its 19 Moisson regional food banks and 13 associate members across Quebec, some 1,200 community organizations handle more than 1.9 million requests for food assistance a month. The FBQ network pools resources, expertise and information to provide adequate assistance to vulnerable persons in need and to do so equitably in every region of the province.
www.banquesalimentaires.org

About the Société des alcools du Québec (SAQ)
Created in 1921, the SAQ imports, distributes and sells a broad range of wines, beers and spirits. Its sales network comprises 410 stores and 426 agency stores located throughout Quebec as well as a transactional website, SAQ.com. Driven by the passion and know-how of its 7,000 employees, the SAQ offers Quebecers a world of discovery, with more than 35,000 products from 3,700 suppliers in 80 countries. In fiscal 2019-2020, the SAQ supported some 300 organizations and events and paid a dividend of $1.226 billion to the Government of Quebec, while also ensuring its business activities respect local communities and the environment.

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