What is it all about?

What is Backing Our Farmers Day?

Backing Our Farmers Day is part of Woolworths ongoing commitment to rural Australia. Woolworths will donate its entire supermarkets profits from one trading day to support farmers and communities suffering the effects of drought.

When will it be held?

Backing Our Farmers Day will occur on Friday February 20, 2009.

Why is Woolworths undertaking Backing Our Farmers Day?

Despite recent rains many rural communities are suffering the long term effects of Australia's worst drought. Many regions have experienced some welcome rain in 2008, but for many farmers the effects of drought continue to have devastating financial and emotional effect on rural communities.

Where does the money go?

Some farming families are unable to pay for basic household bills such as groceries, fuel, rates and telephone and electricity services. All money raised will go to the Country Women's Association in each state for distribution to farming families in that state to help pay for these basic needs. The CWA is a national organisation that aims to improve the conditions for country women and children and tries to make life better for families in rural and remote Australia. The CWA will also distribute assistance grants to support rural communities in the rebuilding of social infrastructure.

A third of the funds will also be provided to Landcare because we still have a long way to go to drought proof farms. Landcare provides farmers with practical tools, skills and information to better manage their farming operations in a sustainable way.

What difference will Backing Our Farmers Day make?

Thanks to the support of our customers we have been able to raise more than $10 million dollars over the last two years which meant through the CWA we have provided thousands of families with emergency financial support.

It also meant that Landcare was able to start projects to help farmers prepare for the future.

How can I participate?

Every person in Australia can contribute to Backing Our Farmers Day simply by shopping at any Woolworths or Safeway supermarket in Australia on Friday, February 20, 2009. Customers can also make their own donations in-store at donation tins located at the check-out.

How much does Woolworths expect to raise on the day?

Our target for this year is $5 million.