Photo/courtesy Jennifer Potts
By Bonnie Adams, Managing Editor
Northborough ?Employees of the Northborough Wegmans store recently contributed nearly $54,000 to be donated to two local United Way branches.
On Jan. 16 store officials presented to United Way representatives a check for $26,939.50 for each of the two branches in a ceremony held at the store.
Store Manager David Orlovsky said the employees had contributions deducted from their weekly paychecks over a five-week period.
“It was totally up to them whether they wanted to donate or not and for whatever amount they felt comfortable with. Athough Wegmans made a donation as well, the bulk was from the employees. I am not surprised but I am proud and humbled by their donations,” he said.
Ted Kamas, a service manager, said Wegmans is committed to helping the United Way in other endeavors as well. One recent example was when the store decided to not place certain beauty items on the sale floor, they donated them to the United Way instead, he noted.
Orlovsky said they hope to continue their efforts to donate to local food pantries as well.
“We believe the United Way does such great work in the community and helps so many people,” he added. “We hope others will be inspired to help them as well.”
Tim Garvin, the president and CEO of the United Way of Central Massachusetts said he was “thrilled and overwhelmed” with the response of the Wegmans employees.
“It's amazing how much was donated in a short period of time,” he said.
Bill Walters, a campaign specialist with the United Way of Tri-County, agreed with Garvin.
“We'se thrilled to have this partnership with Wegmans. We could not do many of the things we do for the community without their support,” he said. “Wegmans is the most generous grocery store chain in New England.”
For more information visit www.uwotc.org and unitedwaycm.org.
