Raley's gives Sandoval check for $25,000 for state parks

Raley's supermarkets presented Gov. Brian Sandoval with a $25,000 check Thursday to make some improvements in Nevada's state parks system.

The money was raised through a public-private partnership in which Raley's donated 5 cents every time a shopper used a reusable grocery bag at any of its stores in Nevada.

The company established a similar program with the California Department of State Parks.

"I am honored to be at beautiful Sand Harbor to present this check to Governor Sandoval, knowing that this much-needed money will be put to immediate use," said Jennifer Teel-Wolter, Raley's community relations manager.

A spokesman said that because of the state budget crisis, the parks division's General Fund budget has been cut by 60 percent in the past four years.

"Given the popularity of both Nevada and California state parks among Raley's customers, the grocery company established the fundraising program to involve its customers while helping to support the parks," said a Raley's statement. The money can be used at any of Nevada's 24 state parks.

The so-called "NickelAid" program applied to all reusable grocery bags whether paper, plastic or canvas.

Sandoval accepted the check at a ceremony at the Lake Tahoe Nevada State Park Visitor's Center at Sand Harbor.

"This donation truly reflects the commitment of the Nevada family to come together to support our state parks," said Sandoval.