To launch this annual challenge on November 15, 2014, Gowrie Group announced a $25,000 dollar-for-dollar matching donation to the Shoreline Soup Kitchens. LC Doane Company, The Safety Zone, Tower Labs, Andre Prost and All Waste, each stepped up to be partner sponsors, and provided an additional $22,500 in matching funds. Two special community events also benefited the Gowrie Challenge this year: The Benefit Concert at The Kate and the "Ahavah" ballet by the Christian Academy of Dance.
Carter Gowrie, CEO of Gowrie Group, stated "Since the inception of the Gowrie Challenge 11 years ago, we have raised close to $1,000,000 (1 million!) dollars to benefit SSKP. That equates to nearly 3 million meals. I am proud to be a part of a strong local community which believes in supporting those in need."
In 2014, the food pantries realized a 15% increase in the number of people coming for help and a 8% increase in the amount of food distributed. Whitney Peterson, Gowrie Group's VP of Marketing shared, "Gowrie Group is proud to team with our local community each year to support the SSKP in such a meaningful way. The funds are used to distribute food through the SSKP's five weekly pantries and goes directly to those who are struggling to feed themselves and their families."
Patty Dowling, Executive Director of SSKP, said "I say thank you to every single person who donated to the Gowrie Challenge this year and Carter, and our partner sponsors. The generosity of our community is humbling and inspiring. Those who supported this year's campaign have assured that those in need of food and fellowship have a place at the table, and for that, I am especially thankful."
Gowrie Group and the Shoreline Soup Kitchens & Pantries are already looking towards the 2015 Gowrie Group Challenge, which will launch on November 15, 2015.
