Store donates $11,000
CONNELLSVILLE – Connellsville’s newest supermarket has yet to open its doors to customers, but opened its checkbook Friday and distributed several donations to local organizations, schools and police department. Dennis Hopkins, Martin’s Food Store corporate vice president of marketing and public relations presented 11 $1,000 checks to representatives of the New Haven Hose Volunteer Fire Co., Connellsville Police Officer’s Association, Connellsville Area School District, Geibel Catholic High School, Carnegie Free Library, Connellsville Salvation Army, Wesley Free Healthcare Center, Connellsville Community Center, Connellsville Township Volunteer Fire Co., Connellsville Community Ministries and the Fayette County Community Action Food Bank during a brief ceremony held at the Widewaters Commons location.
“We are very committed to the communities we serve,” said Hopkins. “Part of our mission statement is to be very good neighbors.”
Store manager Dwight Stewart said that the business would be involved in the community.
“A lot of companies come in and take and don’t give,” he said. “We are very much community-minded and charity-minded. As we go forward, that will be evident.”
Police Chief Stephen Cooper accepted the donation on behalf of the association and said it would be utilized to buy needed equipment.
“We can always use the extra money,” he said.
Patty Handford, director of the Salvation Army in Connellsville, said that she was overwhelmed by the generosity of the new business.
“I nearly cried when they called,” she said.
The contribution, added Handford, likely will be used during the upcoming holiday season to provide presents for needy children.
James Duncan, Connellsville Area School District superintendent, indicated that the donation would aid in purchasing needed school supplies for students. Charles Matthews, New Haven Hose board president, said the contribution would defray costs associated with equipment purchases being considered by the organization.
Both agreed area organizations and residents would benefit with Martin’s as a member of the community.
“It’s nice when (donors) come to you,” said Matthews.
In 2004, Giant Food Stores, which Martin’s is a subsidiary, donated more than $10 million in combined cash and product contributions through its “Living Here, Giving Here” program, according to the company Web site.
The store is scheduled to open at 8 a.m. Oct. 26.