Pamida, supplier partners raise more than $1.3 million for charity

OMAHA, Neb. A regional retailer and its supplier partners raised more than $1.3 million in funds to directly support nonprofit organizations.

Pamida said that its two-day charity event held last month exceeded funds raised in the prior year. The annual event, which was established in 2000, supports organizations in Pamida communities through vendor contributions and participation. More than 75% of the proceeds raised by the annual Pamida Foundation event will directly benefit the communities, the company said.

This year, top contributors to the event included McKesson Corp. and Procter & Gamble, the company said.

The Pamida Foundation supports more than 800 charitable organizations that focus on education, health and social services. One-third of all Pamida Foundation contributions made this year supported healthcare organizations such as hospitals and medical centers, cancer centers, heart foundations, hospice organizations, pharmacy organizations, senior centers and foundation walks. In 2008, the Foundation donated more than $700,000 to organizations to better the lives of citizens in their communities.

“We thank all of our vendors for their support and participation at the event and for their continued partnership,” said Laurie Wharton, SVP marketing and president of the Pamida Foundation. “With their generous donations we are able to help educate youth, and provide assistance to individuals with disabilities, the underprivileged and families in need in our communities.”

Pamida, headquartered in Omaha, Neb., operates 207 stores in 17 states.