NEW LEBANON – Stewart’s Shop hosted a ribbon cutting ceremony to celebrate the grand opening of its new expanded shop on Route 20 on December 20. Assemblyman Jake Ashby (R-107th), Town Supervisor Colleen Teal and Town Clerk Tistrya Houghting were on hand to represent the community. There was free food and special sales all day. Stewart’s associates were all in and engaged, particularly with their fundraising efforts.
Stewart’s is a source of anything from snacks, coffee, and papers to gasoline, homemade soups, hot dogs, meals, beverages, and respite for the weary with tables for eating and chatting. Stewart’s has evolved and grown since its 1945 beginnings as an ice cream purveyor with “make your own sundaes” with a wide variety of toppings. Today, Stewart’s is a mini-mart with 27,000 people daily at its 335 shops.
The 2018 Stewart’s Holiday Match program raised over $2 million for local children’s organizations, setting a record for the fifth consecutive season. From Thanksgiving Day through Christmas Day, Stewart’s customers donated over $1,031,000 to the program, which is an approximate $86,000 increase over last season. Each individual donation is matched penny for penny by Stewart’s Shops. There are no administrative costs and 100% of the funds benefit local, non-profit children’s organizations.
Funds raised support 1,700 not-for-profit charitable organizations serving children. New Lebanon Library is a beneficiary with gifts supporting its children’s programs.
Stewart’s is an ESOP with 40% ownership by its employees.
