Apple fundraiser pushes state apple industry’s local support for American Cancer Society to $129K+

Fishers, N.Y. – An apple tasting fundraiser held by the New York state apple industry has raised $10,001 for the American Cancer Society®’s (ACS) Central New York Region. The funds were raised through sales of New York state apples, cider and applesauce at the Great New York State Fair Aug. 21-Sept. 1.

Thousands of fairgoers visited the New York Apple Association’s (NYAA) booth at this year’s fair to purchase a refreshing snack of New York state’s favorite fruit. New York Apple Association (NYAA) donated apples and cider, which were provided (respectively) by Red Jacket Orchards in Geneva and Beak & Skiff Apple Orchards in Lafayette. Mott’s donated applesauce.

NYAA’s 2014 contribution brings the apple industry’s total donations to ACS’s local office to $129,000.11 since 2000.

“On behalf of the American Cancer Society, I thank New York Apple Association for its continued support of our mission,” said Bruce Hathaway with the American Cancer Society Eastern division in Syracuse, N.Y. “Taking a bite of a fresh, crunchy apple is a treat, and the visitors to our booth at the New York State Fair could take that bite knowing they were not only helping their health, but helping the mission of the American Cancer Society. From providing direct services to patients and families across New York to funding a groundbreaking research program, NYAA is a true partner in helping us finish the fight.”

“We are glad to have this opportunity to help fight cancer in our local community, while also raising awareness of apples’ cancer-fighting potential,” said NYAA President Jim Allen.

NYAA Consulting Dietitian Linda Quinn, MS, RD, CDN – who also appeared at the fair – noted that current research suggests that eating apples and apple nutrients may help fight a range of types of cancers, including digestive, breast, lung and prostate cancers. She cited the apples’ “nutrient density”: apples are a top food source of fiber and antioxidant phytochemicals, yet have only 130 calories per large apple. For more information, visit www.nyapplecountry.com/nutrition.

NYAA’s Allen also thanked the thousands of fair attendees who purchased apple goodies this year, and the ACS and apple industry volunteers who helped staff NYAA’s booth.