July 3, 2020
EDMONTON, AB – Alberta Milk and Dare Foods Ltd. are keeping the Calgary Stampede spirit alive by continuing to pledge their support to feed hungry Albertans by transitioning the Milk and Cookies Shack that’s normally found on the Stampede midway to online. Everyone can help support those in need from the comfort of their own home. The groups have committed to donating the cash equivalent of a serving of milk and a Dare Wagon Wheel to the Calgary Food Bank for every share or like the post receives on the Alberta Milk Facebook page. The campaign will run for the duration of Stampede, July 3-12, 2020.
“These are uncertain times right now for a lot of Albertans, but local dairy farmers are proud to give back to our communities” says Alberta Milk Chair and dairy farmer Tom Kootstra. “Now more than ever we need to come together and support each other.”
“Dare Foods has a longstanding partnership with Alberta Milk and the Calgary Stampede, providing Stampede attendees with a fun spin on a classic refreshment – a glass of milk and delicious Wagon Wheels cookies – with all proceeds going to the Calgary Food Bank to reduce food insecurity in local communities. Fortunately, this partnership can continue this year, keeping the Stampede spirit alive by taking our Milk and Cookies shack virtual,” says Scott Chapman, brand manager at Dare Foods.
“The Milk and Cookies Shack is so much more than a place to get a great treat on the Stampede midway,” says Dana Peers, president and chairman of the Stampede Board, “for years it has also been supporting the fight against hunger.”
“The Calgary Food Bank is grateful for the continuous support of Alberta Milk each year during Stampede. Typically, we see donations taper off during the summer months, so the Milk and Cookie Shack comes at a wonderful time. Over the years, they’ve donated more than $200,000 in much needed food and funds to ensure that no Calgarian goes hungry,” says Shawna Ogston, communications and media relations supervisor at the Calgary Food Bank.
About the Shack
For over 20 years, the Milk and Cookies Shack at the Calgary Stampede has offered a single serving of milk and a cookie for $2 for Calgary Stampede goers. All the proceeds from the Shack are donated to the Calgary Food Bank totalling over $206,000 since 2003 (data prior to 2003 is not available).
How to Help the Hungry
To donate a serving of milk and a Dare Wagon Wheel to the Calgary Food Bank, go here and simply hit the “share” or “like” button on the post. The donation amount of each has a value of about $2. The maximum donation value is $14,000.
Can we get a Ya Hoo?!
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About Alberta Milk
Alberta Milk is a non-profit organization that represents Alberta’s dairy farmers. We are a proud farmer driven organization, whereas we receive our direction from our board of directors and delegates, whom are all licensed dairy farmers. Find more information at albertamilk.com.
About Dare Foods
Dare Foods has a rich history as a privately-owned, Canadian family business. With eight manufacturing plants, over 1,300 employees and after more than 125 years in operation, Dare Foods has become part of the fabric of Canada. Dare Foods remains dedicated to producing innovative, high-quality food. Manufactured in Canada and the U.S., its range of cookies, crackers, fine breads and candy is available throughout North America and in more than 50 other countries around the world. Learn more at darefoods.com/ca_en.
About Calgary Food Bank
The Calgary Food Bank is the first line of emergency food support for families and individuals facing crisis. The Calgary Food Bank’s vision is for a hunger-free community.
About the Calgary Stampede
Much more than a ten-day long celebration with midway rides and bucking broncos, the Calgary Stampede is a gathering place that hosts, educates, and entertains visitors from around the world. Our purpose is to preserve and celebrate western heritage, culture, and community spirit.
Media Contacts
Alberta Milk
Karlee Conway
C: 780-938-5963
kconway@albertamilk.com
Dare Foods Ltd.
Sydney Dare
sdare@darefoods.com
Calgary Food Bank
Shawna Ogston
P: 403-253-2056 | C: 403-870-2009
sogston@calgaryfoodbank.com
Calgary Stampede
Kristina Barnes
kbarnes@calgarystampede.com