As Special Olympics Florida gears up for its 50th anniversary, Publix Super Markets and Special Olympics Florida continue their mission-driven collaboration bringing awareness and funding to thousands of Special Olympics athletes in Florida and throughout the Southeast.
“Publix has been a supporter of Special Olympics Florida since the very beginning,” says Special Olympics Florida President and CEO Sherry Wheelock. “They have been with us since our founding 50 years ago, and they remain one of our most committed partners.”
On Jan. 5-16, the duo will once again hold the annual Torch Icon Campaign, bringing together Publix associates, customers and local communities to support Special Olympics athletes in Florida and beyond. Customers who visit their local Publix during these dates can help assist their state’s athletes with a simple donation.
This year, the campaign is reaching new communities throughout the Southeast U.S. and supporting more Special Olympics athletes, making this the largest campaign to date.
“Publix associates and company leaders always step up when we need them and work tirelessly to make the annual Torch Icon Campaign a success,” says Wheelock.
Since 1993, more than $60 million dollars has been raised through the Torch Icon Campaign, helping Special Olympics athletes to develop their physical and mental wellness experience the power of sports with their family, and their local communities.
Special Olympics Florida serves nearly 60,000 athletes who compete at the local, state, national and international levels. In addition to training and competition for these athletes, Special Olympics Florida provides more than $2 million in free medical screenings for thousands of Floridians with intellectual disabilities through its health programs, including much-needed access to free prescription glasses and hearing aids.
Those looking to help support local Special Olympics Florida athletes can visit their local participating Publix during the Torch Icon Campaign. Participants will also have the chance to meet Special Olympics athletes in-store and hear about their inspiring stories.
“We’re honored to play a part in the good work of Special Olympics,” says Publix Director of Community Relations Dwaine Stevens. “By helping empower athletes to discover new abilities and strengths and helping to make our communities more inclusive.”
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