USA Cares Earns 2008 Newman's Own Award

USA Cares Earns 2008 Newman's Own Award

Corporate Social Responsibility Newswire

09.11.08

USA Cares recently received a Newman's Own Foundation $5,000 grant in recognition of its mission to provide military families with financial support and other critical resources in their time of need.

The awards are co-sponsored by the Fisher House Foundation Inc., Newman's Own Inc. and Military Times Media Group with the purpose of recognizing homefront organizations for their contributions to military quality of life.

"Being chosen for this grant really shows that USA Cares is making a difference nationwide," USA Cares Executive Director Bill Nelson said. "This recognition tells people that we are worthy of support, and we need that support to continue helping these families."

Paul Newman's iconic likeness adorns a variety of products in grocery stores. It is, according to newmansown.com, "shameless exploitation in pursuit of the common good." Newman and the foundation donate all profits and royalties after taxes for educational and charitable purposes. Since 1982, Newman and his foundation have given more than $250 million to thousands of charities worldwide.

USA Cares accepted the award and $5,000 grant at an event hosted by Admiral Mike Mullen, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, at the Pentagon Auditorium in Washington, D.C. Fourteen other organizations received grants in amounts ranging from $15,000 to $1,000. Fisher House reported that it received 120 applications for these grants.

"Your spirit of volunteerism, generosity and patriotism is making a difference in the quality of life for members of the military and their families," the award states. "Your contributions to the support and welfare of our armed forces are appreciated."

The Fisher House facilitates the awards. Its foundation is "dedicated to our greatest national treasure...our military service men and women and their loved ones."

"This grant will go to direct assistance for military families and our general mission," USA Cares Fund Development Director Jennifer Robinson said. "We're honored to receive this grant."