GR Sweeting renewed its partnership with The Ranfurly Homes For Children this back-to-school season. During the months of July and August at the various Shoe Village and Clarks stores, customers were asked if they'd like to make a donation to the homes at the time of purchase. By September, GR Sweeting had collected over $6,000 from the public. The company then matched the public's contribution; in total donating $12,301 dollars to the worthy cause.

Lotoya Polacek, board member and chairperson of the fundraising committee at the home, stated that partnering with GR Sweeting meant a lot to the organization. "We are ever grateful to GR Sweeting's. Through this partnership we are able to provide hope for children who have been abused, abandoned and neglected."

The home currently offers a safe haven for 25 children, ranging in age from 11 to 18. Established in 1956, the home provides everything for the children residing there, including food, shelter, a private education and clothing. The home also provides professional counseling for all children.

"At Ranfurly, they find a loving stable environment and access to boundless opportunities. For these children, Ranfurly offers their only chance for a bright future," said Polacek.

The home depends on the public (both private and corporate) for 80 percent of its income.

GR Sweeting wishes to thank its customers for joining them in this endeavor and donating to such a worthy cause. Gwen Burrows, GR Sweeting retail operations manager said of the generosity of the public: "Without our customers, this initiative could not have been successful. We are very thankful."

The company looks forward to partnering with the Ranfurly Homes again in the future.

Click here to read more at The Nassau Guardian