Food Lifeline Recognizes Whole Foods Market® as 2013 Outstanding Food Donor

SEATTLE, Dec. 9, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Whole Foods Market was recognized as the 2013 Outstanding Food Donor at Food Lifeline's third annual Dress Down Hunger event. As part of the evening's Ending Hunger Awards, the leading natural and organic grocer was recognized for its donations and programs that support Food Lifeline's network of food banks, and work to end hunger in Western Washington.

Whole Foods Market has partnered with Food Lifeline since 1999. During this time, the company has provided over 4.2 million meals, shared financial and in-kind contributions, and donated volunteer time in Food Lifeline's warehouse. 

"Hunger continues to be a critical challenge in each of the communities we serve here in the Pacific Northwest," said Joe Rogoff, President, Whole Foods Market, Pacific Northwest Region. "It is a priority mission for us, so we are proud to partner with Food Lifeline, a true leader in the fight against hunger, on this effort."

"Whole Foods Market is a strong and valued partner in ending hunger here in Western Washington," said Linda Nageotte, President and CEO, Food Lifeline. "Whole foods Market is fully active in our work; doing everything from volunteering their time, to donating wholesome food and providing critical funds. They are an example corporation and community partner."

The acknowledgement of Outstanding Food Donor was one of five awards presented at the event. The annual event is designed to honor organizations and individuals who have made efforts towards hunger relief and raise funds to help Food Lifeline continue its work towards ending hunger in Western Washington.  

For more information on Whole Foods Market's community giving efforts, please visit: http://www.wholefoodsmarket.com/mission-values/caring-communities/community-giving

About Whole Foods Market^®
Founded in 1980 in Austin, Texas, Whole Foods Market (wholefoodsmarket.com, NASDAQ: WFM), is the leading natural and organic food retailer. As America's first national certified organic grocer, Whole Foods Market was named "America's Healthiest Grocery Store" by Health magazine. The company's motto, "Whole Foods, Whole People, Whole Planet"™ captures its mission to ensure customer satisfaction and health, Team Member excellence and happiness, enhanced shareholder value, community support and environmental improvement. Thanks to the company's more than 69,000 Team Members, Whole Foods Market has been ranked as one of the "100 Best Companies to Work For" in America by FORTUNE magazine for 15 consecutive years. In fiscal year 2011, the company had sales of more than $10 billion and currently has more than 325 stores in the United States, Canada and the United Kingdom.

About Food Lifeline
Food Lifeline feeds hungry people by stocking the shelves and filling the tables of 275 food banks, meal programs and shelters throughout Western Washington. Ninety-five percent of the food we distribute is donated by restaurants, grocery stores, farmers and manufacturers. Together with our network of food donors and food banks, we provide 30 million meals for hungry people in need every year. Find out how you can be a part of ending hunger in Western Washington at www.FoodLifeline.org.

SOURCE Whole Foods Market