In being a good neighbor, G&W Foods will return 1 percent of all local sales to the Iola school district, according to Stacey Fager, superintendent of USD 257.
“So keep your receipts,” he said, as proof of purchase.
Fager said the new grocery has similar programs in other towns.
Fredonia schools, for example, have garnered more than $100,000 from the program over the past seven years.
Receipts can be turned into any of the schools in town or at the superintendent’s office, 305 N. Washington.
A ribbon-cutting ceremony Wednesday at the store drew a large gathering of Iola and Allen County officials, representatives from Iola Industries and Thrive Allen County and other local supporters.
Chris O’Hara, a regional manager for G&W, expressed appreciation for the customers, and offered a request.
“We have a lot to learn,” he said. “We’re not where we need to be all the time. Be patient with us. But don’t be patient too long.
“If you don’t give us feedback, we don’t know,” O’Hara continued. “We’ll exhaust efforts to try to get you what you want.”
Customer feedback cards are available for such requests, he said.
PICTURE — G&W Foods store manager Daniel Gile is flanked by city and county officials, as well as representatives from Iola Industries and Thrive Allen County, Wednesday as he cuts the ribbon to mark the grocery store’s grand opening. REGISTER/RICHARD LUKEN
