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Vons stores raise $2.1 million for cure
STORY TOOLS 
More from CommunitiesVons shoppers and employees joined together in June to raise a record $2.1 million to fund critical research programs dedicated to finding a cure for prostate cancer. The local effort was part of an overall fundraising campaign by Vons parent Safeway Inc. that raised $10.7 million. For the Ventura County area, Vons raised $146,784.
This is the seventh year the company has partnered with the Prostate Cancer Foundation, the world's largest philanthropic source of support for prostate cancer research. Funds raised support a broad range of cancer research projects at leading research and medical institutions, including UCLA.
The $2.1 million is the most ever raised by Vons for a single, one-month campaign. "Vons is honored to be part of a program that will contribute directly to the discovery of a cure," said Tom Keller, president of Vons. "I am extremely proud of our record-breaking results, which demonstrates the dedication of our employees and the generosity of our customers who consistently come together for a common cause. It's what community' is all about."
The money will be used to further the Prostate Cancer Foundation/Safeway Career Development Program established in 2006. The program supports innovative cancer research projects directed by young scientists, enabling them to launch and establish careers in prostate cancer research.
Vons and Pavilions raised funds by asking customers to add small contributions to their grocery bills. Many stores also hosted special events such as barbecues and root beer float sales to raise money.
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