Safeway kicks off annual autism awareness campaign

CHICAGO Executives from Safeway, Easter Seals and Special Olympics launched the grocery retailer's annual fundraising campaign for people with disabilities in San Francisco.

Each April, Safeway stores raise funds to help children and adults with autism and other disabilities by asking shoppers to donate to Easter Seals, the largest nonprofit provider of autism and disability services, and Special Olympics at checkout. The annual campaign coincides with April's Autism Awareness Month and Easter Seals' Act for Autism efforts to raise awareness about the services and treatments the organization provides to families living with autism.

"Now more than ever, employers need to tap into an extraordinary resource — people with disabilities who are ready and willing to work," says Larree Renda, Safeway EVP and chair of the Safeway Foundation. "Along with a paycheck, gainful employment affords people with disabilities a priceless measure of self worth and independence."

Last year, Safeway surpassed the $100 million mark for lifetime contributions to Easter Seals, all made since the two organizations' partnership began in 1986. In April 2009 alone, Safeway — and its thousands of employees and customers — raised nearly $9 million for Easter Seals services.