The Environment
The environment is part of the community, on a global scale as well as a local one. Bi-Rite Market has undertaken a number of steps to minimize impact on natural resources, including using "green" paper products, composting organic waste, and recycling. We have also begun using corn-based containers, which are compostable, for many of the housemade items in our deli case. We are continually on the lookout for new and innovative ways to keep the world clean and livable. In 2004, we were awarded an honorable mention at the CORY (commercial recycler of the year) Awards for our recycling efforts.

Our employees
Like many businesses in the food industry, Bi-Rite's employees represent a diverse set of cultural and linguistic backgrounds. Many of our employees are non-native speakers of English, and Bi-Rite offers English classes free of charge to its staff. In so doing, employees are better equipped to successfully communicate with customers and with each other, and in the long term, it opens additional career opportunities for them.

Community Giving
Bi-Rite Market prides itself on the work it does with local non-profits and schools. We have donated over $100,000 in food, gift certificates and auction items since we have opened in 1998. We have a partnership with Buen Dia Preschool and regularly donate to the Women's Building and the many organizations based there. We focus our donations on organizations that benefit women, children and the underprivileged. We also actively donate to the arts community, especially those based in the Mission District. We are business members of the Intersection of the Arts and help with the many organizations that are affiliated with them.

Even though we prefer to donate to organizations that serve within our immediate neighborhood, we will still review requests from other non-profits. To request a donation, please send an email to the attention of Sam Mogannam at sam@biritemarket.com. The letter should identify the following items:

Please make your request at least 3 weeks in advance of when you need the donation.

The name of the organization
The organization's mission statement / Whom it benefits
The specific request-e.g. Item for auction, gift card, food, etc.
The date the donation is needed
Preferred time of pick up of the donated item
The name and contact info for the person requesting the donation
Federal Tax ID
Address
Phone Number