ST. CLOUD, MINN. — Pan-O-Gold Baking Co. has launched “Loaves for Learning,” a new program that will allow shoppers to support local schools by collecting Country Hearth and Village Hearth brand products’ UPC proofs of purchase, worth 5c each, and turning them in to their participating school for redemption. Eligible products include all Country Hearth and Village Hearth brand bread, buns, muffins, bagels and rolls.

The Loaves for Learning program is open to public and private K-12 schools throughout Pan-O-Gold’s distribution area within eight upper Midwest states. Schools must register to participate and may earn up to $10,000 per year, which may be used to help fund many things, including books, computers, extra-curricular activities and building maintenance.

“Supporting education is an investment in our children’s future and especially important at the local level,” said Howard R. Alton, president of Pan-O-Gold Baking. “With Loaves for Learning, we also want to demonstrate our appreciation for the customers, teachers and communities that support us. It's because of their loyal support that all of us at Pan-O-Gold — our bakers, delivery drivers, support and sales people — can continue to serve as the Midwest’s baker, and for that we're grateful.”

Program details, school promotional tools and registration information may be found at loaves4learning.com.