This winter food franchise SumoSalad is joining forces with The Salvation Army to provide additional support through its SumoSalad Soup Kitchen initiative for those still affected by the Victorian bushfires. From May to August, the franchise will donate $1 to The Salvation Army Bushfire Appeal for every litre of soup sold in-store, so Australians can enjoy a nutritious bowl of hot, steamy soup while contributing to the cause of helping re-build fire stricken areas.

Last winter, more than 44,000 litres of soup were sold and this was with half the number of stores, so SumoSalad is setting its sights on doubling this figure for winter 2009.

Communications director for The Salvation Army, Major Brad Halse said SumoSaladÕs support for The Salvation ArmyÕs Bushfire Appeal is a vital initiative and one that is much needed.

“The Salvation Army has distributed more than $5.3 million in financial support to bushfire affected communities and has assisted thousands of people, however Australians need to keep supporting the appeal, as many families and communities are still in need of help. SumoSaladÕs initiative will provide much needed support for the communities devastated by the bushfire, which will help to rebuild their lives with long-term assistance over the winter months,” said Major Halse.

Customers will be able to choose from a variety of soup flavours that are certified organic and gluten free, designed especially for SumoSalad by Australian owned organic food company, Organicus.

Baylis believes the health-focused franchise is the first national fast food chain in Australia to introduce organic produce to its menu. New flavours include roast vegetables and lentils, and beef and barley.

In addition to buying soups, donations towards The Salvation Army Bushfire appeal can also be made in SumoSalad outlets across Australia over the campaign period.

For more information about the initiative, to donate online or for SumoSalad store locations, visit www.sumosalad.com