Benefits
The Cancer Institute of New Jersey
New Brunswick, N.J. – In its ongoing effort to support the fight against cancer in the communities it serves, Panera Bread® has raised nearly $70,000 through its Community Breadbox initiative to benefit treatment, research, prevention and education programs at The Cancer Institute of New Jersey (CINJ). CINJ is a Center of Excellence of the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey-Robert Wood Johnson Medical School.
As the designated Community Breadbox Partner for 2011, CINJ was the sole recipient of funds collected in specially-marked coin boxes that sit at the 38 Panera bakery-cafes in central and northern New Jersey last year. The effort is part of Panera's Comprehensive Operation Dough-Nation® Program, which has a concentrated focus on giving back to patrons and the communities in which its bakery-cafes are located. Contributions generated through the program have provided basic necessities and other vital support for those in need.
Panera Bread has been a strong supporter of CINJ throughout the years and has made great strides in the crusade for a cure. Knowing that cancer touches the lives of many -- including those of his patrons and even his own team members -- Panera Director of Operations Robert MacEachern says giving back in this way is vital. "This partnership exhibits Panera’s strong commitment to the people in the neighborhoods that our cafes serve and allows us to support efforts that are important to the health of our community, such as cancer awareness," he said. "We are proud to be part of such a campaign that gives back to family and friends so close to home."
"All of the funds collected through this initiative translate into lives saved," said Leanne Kochy, CINJ Foundation director of major gifts and special events. "We value Panera Bread’s partnership and remain grateful for its continued dedication to this cause."
The Community Breadbox Campaign is not the only connection the bakery-cafe has with CINJ. Every October for the past five years, Panera Bread has participated in the Pink-Ribbon Bagel Campaign, selling ribbon-shaped delectable treats to raise breast cancer awareness and funds for CINJ. Since 2007, this effort has raised nearly $35,000 for breast-cancer specific programs at CINJ.
About The Cancer Institute of New Jersey
The Cancer Institute of New Jersey (www.cinj.org) is the state’s first and only National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center dedicated to improving the detection, treatment and care of patients with cancer, and serving as an education resource for cancer prevention. CINJ’s physician-scientists engage in translational research, transforming their laboratory discoveries into clinical practice, quite literally bringing research to life. To make a tax-deductible gift to support CINJ, call 732-235-8614 or visit www.cinjfoundation.org. CINJ is a Center of Excellence of the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey-Robert Wood Johnson Medical School. Follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/TheCINJ.
The CINJ Network is comprised of hospitals throughout the state and provides the highest quality cancer care and rapid dissemination of important discoveries into the community. Flagship Hospital: Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital. System Partner: Meridian Health (Jersey Shore University Medical Center, Ocean Medical Center, Riverview Medical Center, Southern Ocean Medical Center, and Bayshore Community Hospital). Major Clinical Research Affiliate Hospitals: Carol G. Simon Cancer Center at Morristown Medical Center, Carol G. Simon Cancer Center at Overlook Medical Center, and Cooper University Hospital. Affiliate Hospitals: CentraState Healthcare System, JFK Medical Center, Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Hamilton (CINJ Hamilton), Somerset Medical Center, The University Hospital/UMDNJ-New Jersey Medical School*, and University Medical Center at Princeton. *Academic Affiliate
About Panera Bread
Panera Bread Company owns and franchises 1,541 bakery-cafes as of December 27, 2011 under the Panera Bread®, Saint Louis Bread Co.® and Paradise Bakery & Cafe® names. We feature high quality, reasonably priced food in a warm, inviting and comfortable environment. With our identity rooted in handcrafted, fresh-baked, artisan bread, we are committed to providing great tasting, quality food that people can trust. Nearly all of our bakery-cafes have a menu highlighted by antibiotic free chicken, whole grain bread and select organic and all natural ingredients, with zero grams of artificial Tran's fat per serving, which provide flavorful, wholesome offerings. Our menu includes a wide variety of year-round favorites complemented by new items introduced seasonally with the goal of creating new standards in everyday food choices. In neighborhoods across this country and in Ontario, Canada, our customers enjoy our warm and welcoming environment featuring comfortable gathering areas, relaxing decor and free internet access. Our bakery-cafes routinely donate bread and baked goods to community organizations in need. Additional information is available on the Company’s website, http://www.panerabread.com.