E-Malt.com News article: Canada: Lakeport Brewing donates $100,000 for Christmas to Salvation Army & Hamilton Food Share

Lakeport Brewing Income Fund today announced that it will donate $100,000 to two charities; the Hamilton Red Kettle Campaign of the Salvation Army and Hamilton Food Share.

"Due to the overwhelming and growing support of our Lakeport beer drinkers, we have had a very successful year and for that we are extremely grateful. During this special time of year, we are thrilled to be able to give back to those Hamiltonians who are most in need. Lakeport employs Hamilton residents. I was born, raised and educated in Hamilton and am especially pleased that Lakeport can participate in a small way to make the holidays better for families in our community. We are giving back to Hamilton as an expression of our thanks and to support two of our local charitable organizations Hamilton Food Share and the Salvation Army", said Teresa Cascioli, the company's Chair & Chief Executive Officer.

Every dollar donated to the Hamilton Food Share raises $10 worth of food to families in need. In 2004, Hamilton Food Share raised approximately 43% of all food provided by emergency food programs across the City of Hamilton to the more than 16,000 people who access a food bank every month. "Currently in our community one in five Hamiltonians are living in poverty, the most impoverished access a food bank. Hamilton Food Share is proud and grateful of the partnership with our hometown brewery, Lakeport, and thank them for their contribution over this Christmas season", said Joanne Santucci, Executive Director of Hamilton Food Share.

The Salvation Army, with its millions of volunteers worldwide, has a proven track record that dates back over 120 years in Canada. It is one of the world's largest providers of social services and one of the most trusted. It serves in providing those in need with the basic necessities of life - food, shelter and warmth. The traditional red kettle is an integral part of the Christmas scene with millions of dollars donated each year to aid needy families, seniors and the homeless. "In keeping with the spirit of the season, we are thankful to Lakeport for supporting the Salvation Army. We are certain that Lakeport's contribution will serve those most in need within the Hamilton community so that they can share in the blessings of the season", said Major Byron Jacobs, Director of Public Relations for the Salvation Army.

"This is a generous contribution from Lakeport at this very special time of year. On behalf of the Hamilton Chamber of Commerce, we are very supportive of all charitable donations from businesses within our community and are pleased that Lakeport's success can benefit all of us here in Hamilton", said John Dolbec, Chief Executive Officer of the Hamilton Chamber of Commerce.

Lakeport Brewing Income Fund is an Ontario-based brewery focused on producing value-priced quality beer for the Ontario take-home market. Lakeport pioneered the "24 for $24" value segment. Lakeport produces nine proprietary beer brands, one of which, Lakeport Honey Lager, is one of the top selling brands in The Beer Store. Lakeport has more than 170 full-time employees at its production facilities in Hamilton, Ontario. The Fund's units trade on the TSX under the symbol TFR.UN (TFR stands for 'two-four').



23 December, 2005