Save Mart yesterday said it raised nearly $50,000 during the months of July and August to support the fire relief efforts of the American Red Cross in Northern California and Northern Nevada.

"The wildfires that scorched the western United States this summer affected everyone," said Steve Junqueiro, e.v.p. and c.o.o. of Save Mart. "Residents lost homes and businesses, firefighters were placed in harm's way, and communities everywhere breathed air fouled by smoke from the fires. The Red Cross brought relief to victims and sustained the firefighters, and stretched their resources while performing these vital services."
 
The fund raising ran from July 11 to August 17, and shoppers of Save Mart, S-Mart Foods, Lucky, and FoodMaxx stores were able to donate any amount to the Red Cross at store check stands, and received receipts that itemized their donation for their tax records.
 
Save Mart operates nearly 250 stores throughout Northern California and Northern Nevada under the Save Mart, S-Mart Foods, Lucky, and FoodMaxx banners.