B&R Donates to Lincoln Children’s Zoo

The red pandas and other critters will enjoy the comforts of their homes at the Lincoln Children’s Zoo a little more thanks to the generosity of shoppers at Russ’s Market and Super Saver stores, which recently raised more than $5,500 for the zoo through a round up event, which allowed shoppers at the checkout to round up their total bill to the nearest dollar and donate the difference to the zoo.

“The Lincoln Children’s Zoo is one of our community’s treasures,” said Pat Raybould, president of parent company, B&R Stores. “We’re glad we could make it easy for our customers to support the zoo through the round up program.”

Lincoln native Rusty the red panda made headlines earlier this summer when he escaped from the Smithsonian’s National Zoo in Washington, D.C. He was found nearby and safely returned. Rusty was born in the successful red panda breeding program at the Lincoln Children’s Zoo, and zoo president, John Chapo, said they’re hoping for more healthy babies this year.

“Donations like this help us care for all the animals at the zoo and allow us to continue our work to increase the population of endangered species like the red pandas,” Chapo said. “We’re grateful for the support of the Russ’s Market and Super Saver stores.”

Lincoln, Neb.-based B&R Stores includes four store concepts -- Russ’s Market, Super Saver, Save Best Foods and Grand Central Apple Market -- located in seven cities across Nebraska and Iowa.

Photo: Disney the red panda looks on as Marty Jarvis, director of marketing for B&R Stores (left), presents a check for more than $5,500 to John Chapo, president and CEO of the Lincoln Children’s Zoo.