We are all trying to save money right now. You don’t have to read the latest consumer indexes to know that we aren’t eating out as much, we aren’t traveling as far from home, we aren’t making as many unnecessary purchases, it’s a pretty clear indication of how we feel about our money, or is it?

It turns out that while we are trying to save, we don’t mind being generous to charitable causes. Today, the supermarket chain, Fresh & Easy announced the return of their school donation program simply based on customer feedback. The program was received so well by customers last year that the requests poured in for a sequel. Customers are given the opportunity to donate to a school of their choice while also being able to provide a $1 donation from the supermarket for every $20 that they spend. The school that raises the most funds will also receive an additional $5,000 on behalf of Fresh & Easy.

Stater Bros. markets also have joined in on the charitable causes. They started a promotion in June to raise money for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Association. Customers were given the opportunity to purchase a $1 paper ballon upon checkout as as a donation. Collectively the 166 stores managed to rase $266,429 for the organization.

Many consumers who were surveyed said that the current economic times have made them more aware and conscience of what they have and what others do not, prompting them to reach out and give a little.