Rite Aid launches 26th annual Miracle Balloon campaign
As the COVID-19 pandemic creates extraordinary need across the country, Rite Aid customers can support the life-saving work of Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals during a critical time through Rite Aid’s annual Miracle Balloon fundraising campaign, running July 12 through August 8.
Rite Aid customers can add a donation to their in-store transactions, as well as donate online through Rite Aid’s social media channels, demonstrating their long-standing commitment and generosity. All proceeds are received by the local community’s children’s hospital to fund critical treatments and healthcare services, and to provide pediatric medical equipment and charitable care for 53 children’s hospitals in communities Rite Aid serves.
This will mark the 26th year Rite Aid has conducted the Miracle Balloon fundraising campaign benefitting CMN Hospitals, raising and donating $95 million in support of children’s hospitals. This year’s effort comes with an unprecedented pandemic adding significant urgency to the cause.
“The ripple effects of COVID-19 have affected nearly every aspect of treatment and services for children’s hospitals and without the help of caring partners like Rite Aid, many may face significant impacts in the short- and long-term,” said Teri Nestel, interim president and CEO of Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals. “All dollars Rite Aid customers, associates and supplier partners raise truly changes kids’ health and changes their future in every community our member hospitals serve.”
Children’s hospitals and their systems are actively working to develop COVID-19 treatments and vaccines. At the same time, investments in telehealth service, personal protective equipment and coronavirus testing supplies have escalated hospitals’ expenses while the suspension of elective surgeries and routine procedures is costing hospitals revenue and impacting children in need of care.
The Rite Aid Foundation also will direct funds raised through KidCents, its customer-generated charitable giving program dedicated to improving the health and well-being of children living in communities Rite Aid serves, through the duration of the campaign. In April, the foundation also issued a special $250,000 grant to CMN Hospitals to address immediate needs related to the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Rite Aid and our associates care deeply about the health and wellness of our communities, but this year our support of children’s hospitals is more critical and meaningful than ever,” said Jocelyn Konrad, Rite Aid’s executive vice president and chief pharmacy officer. “The pandemic has disrupted every aspect of our lives and left many children and adults with underlying conditions vulnerable to the virus. Children’s hospitals have been on the front lines of the response in important, innovative and courageous ways. We’re approaching this year’s campaign with extra inspiration, knowing that each dollar will make an impact for one child, one family and one community.”