Eden Prairie, MN (October 13, 2014) — In honor of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Robinson Fresh® today announced that since inception, the MelonUp!® Pink Ribbon Watermelon program has donated $1 million to breast cancer research organizations throughout the nation.
Robinson Fresh introduced the MelonUp!® Pink Ribbon Watermelon cause-marketing retail program in 2007 to educate consumers about the nutritious benefits of watermelon. According to the American Cancer Society, watermelon is a significant source of lycopene, a powerful antioxidant shown to reduce certain types of cancer.
With each watermelon purchase, a donation is made to breast cancer research, education, and support initiatives. Through year-round sales of fresh watermelon, Robinson Fresh collaborates with North American retailers to give back in their communities by participating in, and sponsoring local events to raise funds.
“Donations like those on behalf of the MelonUp!® Pink Ribbon Watermelon program play a critical role in the development of major advances in the fight against breast cancer,” said David Egan, co-executive director at Susan G. Komen® Minnesota. “The contributions are used to increase early detection and effective treatment, fund additional research, and ultimately create a world with more breast cancer survivors.”
Every October, Robinson Fresh presents donations to breast cancer research organizations selected by each the participating retailer. This fall, the MelonUp! Pink Ribbon Watermelon program will donate $173,000 on behalf of over 20 retailers to breast cancer research organizations in North America.
“Thanks to the generous donations to Mills Breast Cancer Institute, I and many other breast cancer patients have benefitted from the cancer support groups,” said Renaé Strawbridge, a patient at Urbana, Illinois-based Mills Breast Cancer Institute. “As a 12-year survivor, my focus now is to give back by helping others have a successful journey through this disease and treatment process.”
To find out more about the MelonUp!® Pink Ribbon Watermelon program please visit the program’s Tumblr, Instagram, and Facebook pages.
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About Robinson Fresh®
Robinson Fresh got its start in the produce industry over 100 years ago, providing fresh fruits and vegetables to the settlers of North America. Today, Robinson Fresh is one of the largest produce companies in the world and offers the highest quality products. Robinson Fresh packs in many well-known private label and consumer brands as well as a full line of conventional and organic produce through a worldwide network of regional and local growers. For more information about Robinson Fresh, visit http://www.robinsonfresh.com.
