Publix tops all giving in United Way’s 59-year history

Pictured are Rick Owen, United Way CEO and president of United Way of Okaloosa and Walton Counties; Jamie Nichols, Charlie Kessler, Glenn Ward, Adam Jackson, Jacob Foreman, Adam Jett and Jackie Gouge, Publix district manager. [Special to the News Bulletin]

Publix Super Markets associates and Publix Super Markets Charities reached a new goal during the 2016 Publix employees United Way campaign, with donations totaling $501,455 — more than any other company in United Way of Okaloosa & Walton Counties’ 59-year history. The Publix employees campaign has increased each year since 1999 with the opening of the first Publix store in this area — all to benefit United Way’s work in health, education and financial stability in Okaloosa and Walton counties.

“Publix has always been involved in our communities with our time, talents and dollars so to see the amazing generosity of our associates is so rewarding. We appreciate the Okaloosa-Walton County United Way for their support and relationship,” Publix District Manager Jackie Gouge stated.

United Way of Okaloosa & Walton Counties is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. Its mission statement is to serve donors, advocates and volunteers with the organization and leadership they require to provide financial stability, education opportunities, and healthy lives to their community.

United Way fights for the health, education and financial stability of every person in every community of Okaloosa and Walton counties.

This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: Publix tops all giving in United Way’s 59-year history