UFCW Canada members raise record $1.424 million for leukemia charity

TORONTO, June 15, 2007-  UFCW Canada members have set a new fundraising record of $1,424,000 in their annual campaign backing the efforts of the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society of Canada (LLSC).

The record breaking campaign makes the UFCW Canada membership the largest annual supporter of LLSC's research to find a cure for leukemia, lymphoma and other blood cancers.

Wayne Hanley, National President of UFCW Canada and President of UFCW Canada Local 175 announced the record tally at the UFCW Canada Annual Leukemia Gala held June 15 in Toronto. The event has been held annually since 1989.

"To set a new record is exciting," said Hanley, "because every dollar raised by our members bring us a step closer to finding a cure."

"I'm proud of our members and our UFCW Canada union locals across Canada for their outstanding efforts and commitment to this important cause and our members are grateful their fundraising efforts have helped save lives."

UFCW Canada adopted the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society of Canada as its charity of choice in 1985. Including this year's record breaking campaign, UFCW Canada has raised a total $10,805,000 for the LLSC.

UFCW Canada fundraising takes place year-round through member-organized walkathons, bowlathons, barbecues, bake sales, pool, tennis, golf, volleyball and hockey tournaments and other events put on by UFCW members and supported by UFCW Canada local unions and the UFCW Canada national office.

UFCW Canada (United Food and Commercial Workers) represents more than 240,000 Canadian workers in every aspect of the food industry, as well as other service, commercial, processing, manufacturing, technical and professional occupations.