Food Banks in Six States Receive $130,000 in Grants from the Qwest Foundation

Grants Come as Food Banks Report Increased Demand During Difficult Economic Times

DENVER, Dec. 22, 2008 – The Qwest Foundation today announced that it has donated $130,000 to food banks in six states to help meet increased demand from people during the current economic downturn. Food banks in Colorado, Arizona, Minnesota, Washington, Oregon and Utah will receive the grants.

“As we head into the holiday season, the Qwest Foundation is pleased to contribute to the food banks as they continue to provide such an important service, particularly in these difficult economic times,” said Rich Baer, president of the Qwest Foundation. According to Feeding America, one in eight Americans does not always know where their next meal will come from. Food banks are experiencing an average increase in demand of 15 to 20 percent, and many have reported providing emergency food to people who were once donors.

About the Qwest Foundation

The Qwest Foundation's core principle is that investing in people and communities provides lasting value for the future. The Qwest Foundation awards grants to community-based programs that generate high-impact and measurable results, focusing on pre-K through grade 12 education.

The marks that comprise the Qwest logo are registered trademarks of Qwest Communications International Inc. in the U.S. and certain other countries.