Publix and its employees always take great pride in contributing to United Way of Martin County's annual campaign.

Even given the past year's tough economic times, employees from the 10 stores throughout Martin County still managed to raise $159,095, and coupled with a Publix corporate gift of $108,100, contributed a total of $267,195 to United Way's 2008-09 campaign.

This year's standouts were the Martin Downs Publix in Palm City and territory winner Hutchinson Island Publix in Stuart.

Hutchinson Island Publix employees were honored Feb. 19 with a special visit from Gertrude Walden Child Care Center choir who sang, "United Way is Special," an original song created by the children especially for Publix Appreciation Day.

The Publix campaign is consistently successful, carrying on the tradition of giving instilled by the company's founders.

A vital element in the success of the overall campaign is the full-time employee that Publix "loans" to United Way for several weeks each fall. This person helps with several workplace campaigns all along the Treasure Coast, including the Publix stores.

In addition, Publix workers devote their valuable time to United Way by serving on the board of directors, the Campaign Cabinet and taking part in volunteer projects.

Publix helps every year with the White Doves Holiday Project and has provided items in the School Supplies for Students Drive - both projects of United Way's volunteer center, Martin Volunteers. Publix Super Markets Charities also supports CHARACTER COUNTS! - another United Way of Martin County program - with grants and sponsorships.

Call (772) 283-4800 or visit www.unitedwaymartincounty.org for more information.