Okotoks Sobeys is well known for being involved in the community, including the Foothills Country Hospice.

For the past nine years the store has donated the ingredients for every meal a hospice patient eats, free of charge.

David Gilbert, Franchise Operator, says he decided to get involved after he attended the first Hospice Gala in 2008.

"I saw how people from this area accepted it, and how the idea got off the ground with the people that were so committed to make it happen," Gilbert says. "So many people helped in ways that they could, the land was donated, and the construction side of things. I know everybody gave to make it a reality, and one of the things that we were able to do was step up with a food donation."

Patients at the Foothills Country Hospice do not pay for their stay, or their meals.

Twice a week Sobeys fills an order for the hospice's kitchen, delivering everything they need to feed patients.

Gilbert says he's just happy he can help, growing up in the community he's had many connections to the hospice.

"I feel very fortunate that we've been able to do it, thanks to our customers who believe in the way we run our business, it gives us the opportunity to be able to support the hospice in that way."

"I've had friend's parents go through the facility, and people I know now that the facility has started to grow roots. I've known patients that are in there, they've been my customers and friends so that's the sentimental part of it for me."

Gilbert adds as long as he's around and the hospice is too, they'll have support from Okotoks Sobeys.

"As long as there's a need for a hospice for sure we'll continue to support it."

Forty per cent of the hospice's funding comes from community support.

 

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