So Fresh Market Gives Back to the Community

Over 30 Community Groups Benefit from Market Contributions

TORRANCE, Calif., September 18, 2009 – So Fresh Market, an open-air, community market committed to providing a unique way for local patrons to eat, shop, learn and give back, has provided monetary contributions to over 30 community groups in the Torrance, Calif. area since its inception in May 2009.

The market provides an economical venue where families can experience the freshest foods, learn expert cooking tips and meal ideas, as well as enjoy free entertainment, arts and crafts. Thus far, So Fresh Market has given a total of over $10,000 to a variety of organizations, including local church groups, youth athletic organizations and non-profits.

The market is built on a concept of fostering community relationships and giving back to the community. It has implemented three fundraising opportunities for local groups to reach their financial goals.

• Volunteer Service Hours, where the group volunteers to work a booth at the market and earns funds on an hourly basis.
• Shop & Support Weekends, in which 20 percent of fresh produce and natural goods sales from the group’s supporters are donated to the group.
• Gift Card Program, where 20 percent of gift card sales are given back to the group.

“We founded So Fresh Market with the intention of building a stronger, healthier community. Our goal is to make a positive difference and help community groups turn their goals into reality,” said Jin Ju Wilder, spokesperson for So Fresh Market. “We have had tremendous customer feedback, and patrons are returning week after week.  We are simply overwhelmed by shopper support and loyalty. In four short months, we can already feel the impact the market is making on the community.”

So Fresh Market also brings community exposure to local groups by providing a venue for performances.  The main stage has featured student groups including The Angel Choir from Ascension Lutheran School, Torrance High School’s Jazz Ensemble and Master Kwon’s Student Karate Demonstration. 

The North Torrance Youth Music Ensemble (nTyme) has performed at the Market on several occasions. “We greatly appreciate the opportunity to connect with the community and bring exposure to our program at this terrific family venue,” said Hiroko Eddow, president of nTyme.  “In addition, we’re participating in two So Fresh Market fundraising programs to help raise funds for music fees and performance venues.  nTyme’s goal is to provide support to the North Torrance area music programs, and It feels good to partner with an organization that fosters community relationships and gives back so generously.”

So Fresh Market, located between Madrona and Hawthorne adjacent to the northern parking deck of the mall, is open for business every Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

For a list of community groups benefiting from So Fresh Market donations, volunteer opportunities and the schedule of activities, please visit www.sofreshmarket.com.

About So Fresh Market
Los Angeles-based So Fresh Market is an open-air, community market providing fresh fruits and vegetables, local cuisine, natural goods, creative meal options and live entertainment to its patrons. Located at the Del Amo Fashion Center in Torrance, Calif., So Fresh Market is dedicated to facilitating community connections, providing a means for community involvement and giving a portion of all profits to the community through qualified groups. For more information, please visit www.sofreshmarket.com.

For More Information:
Brock Nemecek
DMA Solutions
bnemecek@dma-solutions.com
1-972-719-9025
1-817-706-2681 cell