Morton’s Gourmet Market Grants $25,000 to All Faiths Food Bank

(Sarasota County) Morton’s Gourmet Market has donated $25,000 to All Faiths Food Bank of Sarasota County to help those in most need at this time. This donation will be part of a match $500,000 gift from the Joe and Mary Kay Henson Family Fund and an additional $100,000 from an anonymous donor through the Community Foundation of Sarasota County, all donations made will be matched up to $600,000. 

Through the matching funds, the Morton’s grant could grow to $50,000.  The Morton’s team have been active supporters of All Faiths Food Bank through both food and cash donations over the years and this gift will allow the Food bank to provide many meals to the participants in the programs. 

 “During the Pandemic, we were declared an essential business and the Sarasota community has continued to shop at our markets which allows us to keep our staff working while providing the experience customers have enjoyed prior to this pandemic, “ said co-owner Eddie  Morton.   “In addition, our suppliers have been able to handle orders to keep the shelves stocked at all three locations so that customers can continue to find their favorite items or place an order for an in-home or office gathering. Through the hard work of our staff and vendors, our loyal clientele, we have been able to continue to keep our locations open and we felt the time was right to increase support and to give back to those in our community who need assistance .”

“Morton’s contribution towards our current matching gift opportunity is greatly appreciated during this time of increased need. COVID-19 has created its own pandemic of hunger in our community, as high unemployment rates continue and those affected are left with unknown futures.  Morton’s support will help us as we continue to provide food and assistance to those struggling the most,” said Sandra Frank CEO of All Faiths Food Bank.

“In addition to this thoughtful and needed gift to All Faiths Food Bank during this moment, Morton’s Market’s longstanding commitment to the community as a whole, as well as individual students through their scholarship fund, demonstrate the company’s generous nature,” comments Roxie Jerde President and CEO of the Community Foundation of Sarasota County

The Community Foundation  and Morton’s often share the same philanthropy philosophy, business management and local community service ideals which is boldly apparent through the long history of the two organizations.  One of many relationships:  When the family decided to form a culinary fund, they looked to the Community Foundation for assistance and management and through this partnership, the Morton’s Culinary Education Fund was established which has granted many scholarships to Sarasota County High School graduates which enables them to continue their training for a culinary or hospitality career.  Scholarship recipients have attended major universities not only in Florida but major institutions throughout the country.