Brookshire Grocery Company (BGC) has announced a temporary halt to its Heroes Run event in order to reallocate resources towards new programs aimed at maximizing support for local heroes. Since its inception in 2016, the Heroes Run has been dedicated to raising funds for local first responders, military members, and veterans in Shreveport and Bossier City. However, despite the company’s significant investment in the event, the costs of hosting have outpaced the funds raised.
Jerry LeClair, Chief Merchant Officer and Executive Sponsor for BGC Racing, stated, “Despite the incredible investment our company has dedicated to promoting and hosting the event, the Heroes Run has not grown to the level of success required to sustain the program.” In light of this, BGC has decided to redirect resources from the event towards launching new programs expected to generate more donation dollars to better support local heroes and communities.
While details of the new program are still being finalized, BGC remains committed to its philanthropic efforts. One such event is the upcoming FRESH 15 race scheduled for March 2 in Tyler. Established in 2014, the FRESH 15 promotes wellness and supports the community by donating 100% of race revenue to local nonprofit organizations. Over the past ten years, the event has raised over $1.3 million, significantly surpassing the funds raised by the Heroes Run.
Brad Brookshire, Chairman and CEO for Brookshire Grocery Co., emphasized the company’s dedication to making a difference in the communities it serves. “Each year, we donate back to our communities through organizations that support hunger relief, education, health, family wellbeing, first responders, military, and veterans,” he said.
Annually, BGC donates more than $100,000 to local charities supporting first responders, military personnel, and veterans. Additionally, the company has honored hundreds of veterans through the Heroes Flight program, providing them with all-expenses-paid trips to Washington D.C. to visit memorials built in their honor.
The Shreveport and Bossier City Police and Fire Departments, along with several other local nonprofits, have benefited from the funds raised by Heroes Run in the past.