FAQ

Fun Facts About our Smile Card Program

  • To date, over $4.5 million has been awarded to groups and organizations raising funds on the Smile Card Fundraising Program. WOW!
  • There are over 500 groups and organizations raising funds for special projects on the Smile Card Fundraising Program through Thrifty Foods.
  • Over 3,500 community group initiatives have been supported through the Smile Card Fundraising Program since it started more than 7 years ago.
  • Exciting things have been created and gained through the program including: a school mural, musical instruments for budding performers, kids camp expenses, playgrounds, and food for hampers.
  • Groups can pick a new goal each year or raise funds for one large project for subsequent years.
  • Size doesn't matter. The Smile Card Fundraising Programs supports groups from 10 to 2,000 people.
  • As of January 2012, there are 176 school groups throughout Vancouver Island and the Lower Mainland on the Smile Card Fundraising Program!
  • It's easy to apply for the program - all you need is a completed application form and cover letter!

Most asked questions about the Smile Card Fundraising Program

How does loading the cards work?

Thrifty Foods will donate an amount equal to 5% of the amount you load on your Smile Card to the fundraising group. There is absolutely no cost to you. Take the Smile Card with you to Thrifty Foods when you go grocery shopping. Ask the cashier to load any amount you wish onto the card before having your grocery order rung through. Pay for the card load with cash, debit card or credit card. Ring the grocery order through and pay for the order with your Smile Card. When the card balance is running low, load it again to continue to support your group every time you shop! It's that simple!

Does using a Smile Card like this affect my Club Thrifty Foods points?

No it will not. The programs work together, not independently of each other. Customers enrolled in the program continue to load their Fundraising Smile Card at the till, which executes the 5% donation to the group from Thrifty Foods (card loads are not eligible to earn Club Thrifty Foods points). They then use the Smile Card as a method of payment for your groceries, just like any other payment method.


Where do I get Smile Cards for my group?

The Smile Card program contact for your organization has the smile cards to distribute to your group members. If you are a new organization, you will request Smile Cards from the Community Relations Coordinator (details provided upon approval of your application).


What if I do not have enough funds on my Smile Card to pay for my grocery order?

The cashier can apply all available funds on the card to your order. The outstanding balance can be paid in cash, debit card, or credit card. Cashiers cannot load a Smile Card once a grocery order has been rung though the till.


What if there are funds remaining on my Smile Card once I've paid for my grocery order?

Use the funds to pay for purchases next time you shop at Thrifty Foods! Many customers will load an amount equal to their weekly, biweekly or monthly grocery budget on payday or at the beginning of the month and use the card for their next several purchases. This speeds up the purchase transaction time as no pin number or signature is required.


How do I know the current balance of my Smile Card?

Your grocery receipt will show the remaining balance of your Smile Card after each purchase or a cashier can swipe the card and do a balance inquiry. You can also check your card balance by clicking here.

How do I know I'm supporting my group/organization?

Your grocery receipt will display a message on the receipt stating, "Group XXX - Thanks for your support!" Groups are required to apply for participation in this program annually and are advised of specific eligibility dates. If the group name does not display on the receipt, the group has not reapplied for funding and is not currently active. For example, schools can fundraise during the school year (September to May), soccer teams for the soccer season (September to March), etc.

Cardholders should check with their group for specific information on eligibility dates as store staff does not have this specific information available to them.

What if my Smile Card is lost or stolen and there is a balance on it?

Lost or stolen cards should be reported immediately by calling Thrifty Foods Customer Service (250-544-1234 or 1-800-667-8280) or by going to any Thrifty Foods store. Once reported, existing funds on the card are locked. A replacement card must be obtained from your group's administrator. Keep a record of your 19 digit card number, located on the back of the card, for reference in case of loss/theft.

Should I keep my Smile Card after the fundraising dates are over?

Yes - if the group applies for future funding, previously issued cards will be valid for the next approval period.

QUESTIONS?

Please call: (250) 483-1715
or E-mail: communityrelations@thriftyfoods.com