New Leaf's Smart Giving Program for Food Bank Underway through November

Throughout the month of November, for every 10 pounds of Smart Chicken® purchased at New Leaf Community Market at 150 San Mateo Rd in Half Moon Bay, one pound of poultry will be donated by New Leaf and Smart Chicken’s producer to Second Harvest Food Bank of Santa Clara and San Mateo Counties.

Last holiday season, New Leaf donated 1.5 tons of Smart Chicken to Second Harvest with the support of Half Moon Bay customer purchases. Since 2006 when New Leaf first launched the program in Santa Cruz County, New Leaf has donated over 21 tons of Smart Chicken to food banks in the communities it serves.

“We are very grateful for the poultry we are receiving thanks to a partnership with New Leaf and MBA Poultry. Second Harvest provides food to nearly a quarter of a million people every month. Poultry is a great source of protein for the children, seniors and families we serve,” said Kathy Jackson, CEO of Second Harvest Food Bank of Santa Clara and San Mateo Counties.

“New Leaf is very appreciative of Smart Chicken’s producer, MBA Poultry, for their generous support of those in need in our community. We are also very appreciative of our customers for joining with us to make this annual effort for food banks such a success," said Chris Farotte, meat and seafood director, New Leaf Community Markets.

Smart Chicken is made from 100% all-natural, free-roaming, grain-fed chickens that are raised without animal byproducts, antibiotics, or hormones. The poultry is processed using purified cold air instead of being chilled in non-potable communal water baths, which eliminates water absorption and cross contamination. The company maintains high standards for how the chickens are raised, transported, and prepared for market, and is proud of their Certified Humane status.

About New Leaf Community Markets
An organic and natural grocery company with seven stores, New Leaf has been serving the community for 30 years. New Leaf is committed to offering customers choices that have the most beneficial impact on their health and the health of the environment. Helping customers make informed decisions is an integral part of this commitment. A wholly owned subsidiary of New Seasons Market since November 2013, New Leaf is the first grocer in California to achieve B Corporation certification, which means that New Leaf uses the power of business to solve social and economic problems. New Leaf’s mission, to nourish and sustain our community, is reflected in the 10 percent of profits given annually to support local nonprofits working to improve the quality of life. [www.newleaf.com][1]

About Second Harvest Food Bank of Santa Clara and San Mateo Counties
Second Harvest is the trusted leader dedicated to ending local hunger. Since its inception in 1974, Second Harvest has become one of the largest food banks in the nation, providing food to nearly a quarter of a million people each month. The Food Bank mobilizes individuals, companies, and community partners to connect people to the nutritious food they need. More than half of the food distributed is fresh produce. Second Harvest also plays a leading role in promoting federal nutrition programs and educating families on how to make healthier food choices. www.shfb.org