Shopping for a Cause at Whole Foods

Whole Foods shoppers in Manhasset bagged more than groceries on Wednesday. Five percent of every dollar spent made its way to local grassroots organization Residents for a More Beautiful Port Washington (RFMBPW). The group was chosen by Whole Foods Manhasset as its Charity of the Day; the fundraiser generated $4,543.70 for the community group.

Plenty of shoppers headed to the store specifically to support Residents. "I needed spinach ravioli and they were raising money for Residents — a double reason to come," said Port resident Marion Rosenbaum.

Abby Orshefsky added, "I told my entire water color class to shop at Whole Foods today."

Beth Lipset of Harbor Acres was en route to Whole Foods earlier in the week when she realized postponing her trip would mean more money for Residents. "I knew I'd be getting big ticket items like organic meat and chicken," Lipset explained. "My bill came to almost $300. Five percent of that is a big chunk of change." 

Whole Foods Manhasset selects a Charity of the Day four times a year, donating five percent of post-tax net sales. The store receives numerous requests for selection: groups must be a registered 501(c)3 and have a core mission that falls under one of four themes: health, environment, harvest and farm, and kids and education. 

Residents for a More Beautiful Port Washington was chosen for its commitment to environmentalism and sustainable development. "The 5% Day ties into our core values of giving back to the community and improving the environment," said Karen Greene, marketing team leader, Whole Foods Manhasset. Previous Port Washington recipients include: Grassroots Environmental Education and the Dodge Homestead Farm.

Residents for a More Beautiful Port Washington is a non-profit which develops programs and initiatives that focus on the environmental health of Port Washington and enhance the quality of life in the community. Recent initiatives include the launch of a Clean Green Zone on Main Street and stewardship of a successful campaign to have Port Washington awarded a County pilot for vibrant downtown development. The group also maintains 16 gardens around town and runs environmental education programs in Port schools.

Shopping took on a convivial turn Wednesday as Port residents browsed the aisles and mingled with friends. Juliane Saary-Littman, Port Washington resident and RFMBPW board member, found her grocery run took longer than usual.

"It took me forever," Sarry-Littman said. "Too many people to talk to!"