Sedano’s Helps Raise Funds for Autism

Sedano’s Supermarkets, the largest independently owned Hispanic grocery chain, and IMUSA, a leading ethnic housewares brand with deep roots in Latin America and the United States, have raised $63,000 during 2012, the third year of the south Florida companies’ partnership to raise money and promote autism awareness and research. During this year’s campaign, customers in all 34 Sedano’s stores bought $1 Autism Speaks puzzle pieces in support of the cause.

“Three years ago, we forged a proud partnership with IMUSA and Autism Speaks to give back to the community we serve,” said Javier Herran, president of Miami-based Sedano’s, which has more than 3,000 employees and 34 locations in Florida. “Together, IMUSA, Sedano’s management, staff, and customers have raised about $150,000 to benefit Autism Speaks.”

“Underwriting the first qualitativeresearch for Hispanic families affected by autism; launching fundraising events that support and promote awareness and research during Autism Awareness Month, including the program with Sedano’s Supermarkets; and leading Miami’s 2012 Walk for Autism fundraising event, are ways that IMUSA supports Autism Speaks,” noted Manny Gaunaurd, president of Doral, Fla.-based IMUSA, the first cookware company to support the condition as its philanthropy of choice.

According to the Atlanta-based Centers for Disease Control, one in 88 children in the United States is autistic.