Aussies dig deep at check-outs for bushfire relief

Inspired by the generosity of customers, Coles has announced it will triple the more than half a million dollar that has been donated at the check-out.

Coles announced today it will triple the current bushfire relief funding efforts of customers who have already raised more than half a million dollars.

Since November, Coles customers at more than 800 supermarkets have donated $522,010 to the Red Cross Disaster Relief and Recovery.

For every $1 raised, Coles will donate $2, taking those funds to more than $1.5 million, adding to the $3 million in gift cards it has already provided to rural fire brigades.

Coles site manager Taree Ben Elliot donating to Lansdowne Bush Fire Brigade. Picture: supplied

Coles CEO Steven Cain said collection points were being extended to Coles Express, Liquorland, First Choice and Vintage Cellars.

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“In these extraordinary circumstances, we have decided to thank our customers by matching the funds they’ve already donated, and then match that amount again to thank the Red Cross for their incredible work,” he said.

RFS Firefighters with Coles Batemans Bay team members receiving donations of full trolleys of groceries and fresh produce. Picture: supplied

“We have also tripled the number of places customers can donate by joining our Coles Express and Liquor stores in fundraising efforts raising it from more than 800 locations to 2500.”

In addition to money donations, Coles has been working with Foodbank to deliver supplies to relief centres in fire affected areas around the country.

Areas like Merimbula, Eden, Cobargo, Bega and Bermagui in NSW and Clyde North and Bairnsdale in Victoria have received pallets of food and living essentials.

Animals haven’t been forgotten with Mogo Zoo near Batemans Bay and the Adelaide Koala and Wildlife Hospital receiving pallets of fresh fruit and vegetables.

“Food has been given directly to those affected by fires, emergency services and relief organisations to help them operate field kitchens and feed emergency services teams,” Mr Cain said.

Giraffes seen at Mogo Zoo on the NSW south coast during the bushfires. Picture: Nine News

“Our stores have also been directly donating to locals in need such as residents at nursing homes, police and fire crews. This is going to be a continuing effort from all of our teams who have been tirelessly working to help the community.”

Show your support via collection points in participating stores.

Originally published as Aussies dig deep at check-outs for bushfire relief