Montgomery County's Alcohol Beverage Services (ABS) and UFCW Local 1994 MCGEO are once again supporting the "Labor of Love" campaign to raise funds for the March of Dimes throughout November. Now in its third year, the initiative encourages customers at all ABS retail locations, including Oak Barrel & Vine stores, to donate or round up their purchases to support maternal and infant health. In past years, patrons have been very generous, contributing over $53,000 in 2022 and more than $65,000 in 2023, according to the Montgomery County website.
According to the Montgomery County announcement, the funds will support research, advocacy for policy changes, and educational resources for families, with the goal of reducing birth defects and infant mortality. County Executive Marc Elrich expressed appreciation for these efforts, saying, "I want to thank ABS and MCGEO for teaming up to support the March of Dimes through their ‘Labor of Love’ campaign. In addition to the health and safety benefits ABS provides Montgomery County through safe alcohol distribution, we are proud of the contributions of ABS employees through volunteering, fundraising and supporting nonprofit partners like the March of Dimes."
The campaign's importance is highlighted by concerning statistics from the March of Dimes, which state that the U.S. is one of the most dangerous developed countries for childbirth. Their data shows that two women die from pregnancy-related issues each day, two babies die every hour in the U.S., and one in 10 is born too soon. In response to these issues, ABS Director Kathie Durbin emphasized the organization's commitment to community health, stating that supporting March of Dimes is a great way for everyone to give back to the local community. She noted that ABS has always been dedicated to public health and safety, and this campaign is a natural extension of that commitment.
As the county's alcohol wholesaler for beer, wine, and spirits, ABS operates 27 retail stores and oversees licensing, enforcement, and education for over 1,000 alcohol-selling businesses. This initiative allows the organization to expand its influence, encouraging residents to engage in a cause that impacts community well-being beyond responsible consumption. ABS has shown a commitment to directing a significant portion of its annual net income, which exceeds $35 million, back into worthy causes and supporting county funding.
