Rite Aid raises nearly $5 million for Children’s Miracle Network

CAMP HILL, Pa. — Rite Aid raised $4.9 million for the Children’s Miracle Network last year, the retail pharmacy chain said Thursday.

The company said the money would fund medical care, research, education and outreach programs at 117 Children’s Miracle Network hospitals in the communities that Rite Aid serves. The retailer raised the money by selling paper Miracle Balloons for $1 and donating all proceeds to local Children’s Miracle Network hospitals, as well as through such events as bowling tournaments, parking lot carnivals and antique car shows. The 4,700-store chain has raised more than $46 million for the organization since 1994.

“There are more than 100 children’s hospitals across the country that benefit from the incredible generosity of Rite Aid associates and customers,” Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals president and CEO John Lauck said. “Rite Aid associates continue to demonstrate their commitment to the Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals in their communities year after year, with an especially impressive $4.9 million raised in 2010.”