Rite Aid kicks off Children’s Miracle Network campaign

CAMP HILL, Pa. Rite Aid plans to kick off its national fundraising campaign for Children's Miracle Network this Sunday, the retailer announced Thursday, and will continue those fundraising efforts through May 10 through the sale of $1 paper Miracle Balloons to customers.

Last year, Rite Aid associates raised more than $5.3 million for Children's Miracle Network. Rite Aid has raised more than $31 million since 1994 for 117 pediatric hospitals.

"One of Rite Aid's core values is that we are a caring neighbor, involved in community activities in meaningful ways," stated Mary Sammons, Rite Aid chairman, president and chief executive officer. "Rite Aid associates are committed to giving back to the local communities that we serve. Each year, our associates do an outstanding job of coming up with creative ways of getting their communities involved in raising a lot of money for local children who need help."

In addition to selling $1 paper Miracle Balloons, Rite Aid associates have created their own ideas to raise funds for the charity, including bake sales, carnivals and car washes. Last year, one store manager in Wytheville, Va., held an archery tournament and raised more than $800. Executives at Rite Aid's headquarters in Camp Hill, Pa., washed employees' cars and competed in an obstacle course, raising $200,000 for the local children's hospital.