The Sept. 14, 2009 Grocers on the Green: Chip’n in for Kids’ Cancer golf fundraiser raised more than $150,000 for pediatric cancer and the August Food for the Cure fundraiser for the Coborn Cancer Center raised $98,500.

Since 2002, the Grocers on the Green event has raised more than $869,000 to support the Pediatric Cancer program at CentraCare Health Plaza allowing children and their families to stay close to home when receiving treatment. Chris Coborn, president and CEO of Coborn’s, Inc. and Greg Kurr, vice president of sales for Kemps Foods, serve as event co-chairs for the golf outing.

Golf event proceeds also partially fund two professional child-life specialists, who work with pediatric patients and their families. These specialists work to lessen the children’s anxiety levels when receiving treatment and help them to cope in positive ways by having toys and items available that children enjoy. The money also pays for four events for the children, in addition to toys, books and numerous items that children may enjoy while they receive treatment.

Coborn’s and their vendor partners also support the local fight against cancer through Food for the Cure. In August, when shoppers purchased products with the Food for the Cure logo on it, Coborn’s and their vendor partners donated a portion of the sales to support programs and services to the Coborn Cancer Center at CentraCare Health Plaza. Since 2006, this program has raised more than $395,000. Learn more about Grocers on the Green in the Spotlight on Health - Fall 2009 article.

Presenting Sponsor: Platinum Sponsors: Crystal Farms JB Group Kemps Pan-O-Gold Baking Russ Davis Wholesale SuperValu Inc. Gold Sponsors: Anheuser Busch Bernick’s Holiday Companies Miller Coors Brewing

2009 Grocers on the Green Photos