Whole Foods partners with CalWild for NorCal protections

• July 7, 2022
• CalWild

The well-known grocery chain brand re-commits to protecting wild lands and waters in California’s 2^nd Congressional District.

California Wilderness Coalition (CalWild) announced today the continuation of their partnership with national grocery retailer brand Whole Foods through a significant monetary contribution to CalWild’s Northwest Mountains and Rivers campaign. Whole Foods will be recognized as an Industry Leader, the highest level of recognition by CalWild. Industry Leaders give $5,000 or more to CalWild’s efforts to protect wild places across California – in this case, lands and waters in Mendocino, Humboldt, and Trinity Counties.

Whole Foods Market is a national grocer that seeks out the finest natural and organic foods available, maintains the strictest quality standards in the industry, and has an unshakeable commitment to sustainable agriculture. “We provide resources to regional and national initiatives that relate to our mission, core values, and industry. CalWild’s work in northwestern California is emblematic of what we believe in,” said Michelle Robison, Whole Foods’ Community Engagement & Events for Northern California. “We look forward to seeing the campaign protect over 300,000 acres of new or expanded wilderness and almost 500 miles of new wild and scenic rivers.”

The current effort extends a partnership between the two Bay Area-based teams that started in 2018. “When we first came to Whole Foods, we approached them like we do any potential partner – as locals. We’d often buy our lunches down the street at the Oakland store. They’ve always had a particular interest in the wild and scenic rivers component of our work, so our northwest campaign is a perfect fit for their support,” noted CalWild’s Development Director Dup Crosson.

CalWild applauds Whole Foods for committing to the wild, public lands that make California a hotspot for outdoor recreation (generating $87 billion annually) and iconic landscapes.

About Whole Foods

Whole Foods Market was founded in Austin, Texas, when four local businesspeople decided the natural foods industry was ready for a supermarket format. The original Whole Foods Market opened in 1980 with a staff of only 19 people and was an immediate success. It now boasts 500 stores across North America and has expanded to the United Kingdom. To learn more visit www.wholefoodsmarket.com