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A sweet deal for business and the community
BY PATTIE SIMONE
NEWJERSEYNEWSROOM.COM
THE FLIP REPORT
Last evening the Ben & Jerry's ice cream store in Ridgewood, N.J. became the latest area business to host a "Purchase with a Purpose" fundraising event for Bergen County's United Way. The intense humidity did not dampen the mood as a face painter, balloon artist and the Fuzzy Lemon band took to the sidewalk outside the Ben & Jerry's.
"We do benefit nights all the time for the school system and other non-profits," said Sibel Berberoglu, owner of the Ridgewood Ben & Jerry's. "It's our way of giving back to the community."
Another area business, SweetandSassy.com, a Ridgewood based retail store and spa catering to the tween market, donated the services of their tricked out pink limousine, in exchange for a donation to The United Way.While some people may have weathered the economic downturn with little stress, many area families have found themselves in unfamiliar territory, having to worry about making their mortgage payment or even putting enough food on the table. According to Cheryl Moses, Development Director, Bergen County's United Way has seen a 200 percent increase in calls for assistance; the Compassion Fund has provided close to $1 million dollars in aid in 2009.
"We are grateful to community-minded businesses like Ben & Jerry's, whose generosity is helping people in direct and concrete ways," says Tom Toronto, President of Bergen County's United Way. "They have been strong supporters of the United Way, and generous in their support of our efforts when it is most needed. We are honored to direct their gift to the Compassion Fund — it will change lives."
If you are struggling to pay a utility bill, need funds for medication, or money to make next moth's rent (or mortgage payment), call 2-1-1. Live operators are ready to assess your situation and direct you to the right resource.
If you are a business interested in hosting a "Purchase with a Purpose" event, or an individual looking to support Bergen County's United Way call (201) 291-4050 or visit their website www.bergenunitedway.org.
We're always looking to cover interesting business and life issues. If you've got a unique story, business success tips or an event coming up, give Pattie a shout at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .
