• JDRF Partner since: 1993
• Total contributions: over $14 Million raised
• Website: http://www.topsmarkets.com/

Tops Friendly Markets is the originator of the well-loved JDRF Sneaker, symbol of JDRF’s Walk to Cure Diabetes and the focus of a nationwide Sneaker Sales campaign that raises millions of dollars each year for type 1 diabetes research. Tops Friendly Markets created the paper sneaker in 1993 to raise money for the Western New York Chapter, and it quickly spread through the organization.

Tops Friendly Markets’ 157 company-owned and five franchise locations under the Tops Friendly Markets run fundraisers throughout the year, but the Sneaker Program remains the company’s top fundraiser. Many of their more than 15,000 associates participate on JDRF walk teams. The sneaker sales run for three weeks in conjunction with the local chapter One Walk dates.

Tops Friendly Markets has raised more than $14 million for JDRF research since they started the sneaker program in 1993. They are now involved in three JDRF chapters – Upstate New York Chapter, Western and Central Pennsylvania Chapter, and the Greater New England Chapter.  They are recognized as the Platinum Partner for a Cure for JDRF’s Upstate New York Chapter sponsoring One Walk, Gala, Golf Tournament and other events and activities throughout the year.

Tops Friendly Markets, LLC, is headquartered in Williamsville, NY and is a leading full-service grocery retailer in upstate New York, northern Pennsylvania and western Vermont. For more information about Tops Friendly Markets, visit the company’s website at www.topsmarkets.com.