Stripes convenience stores and Children’s Miracle Network, an international non-profit organization that raises funds for children’s hospitals, came close to doubling funds during its fundraising campaign this April.

 

Stripes’ 2009 fundraising efforts totaled $386,686 compared to $197,000 raised in 2008. Funds were raised during a five week in-store campaign in which Stripes associates sold Children’s Miracle Network paper miracle balloons for one dollar. All 509 Stripes stores participated in the fundraising. The donations will be given to 12 Children’s Miracle Network hospitals in Texas, Oklahoma and New Mexico, where the money was raised. 
 

 

Stripes is the retail arm of Susser Holdings Corp., which has been a supporter of Children’s Miracle Network since 1997, and directly operates more than 500 retail convenience stores in Texas, Oklahoma and New Mexico and more than190 Laredo Taco Co. and Country Cookin’ restaurants.  

 

 “The Children’s Miracle Network Balloon Campaign at Stripes enjoyed another record breaking success this year thanks to the deep commitment on the part of our team members and our valued customers,” said Steve DeSutter, president and CEO of Stripes. “It is great to see how aligned our store associates and our customers are around the work of the Children’s Miracle Network and the great hospitals they fund that improve the lives of our community’s kids.”

 

“It is remarkable that given our country’s current economic situation, Stripes nearly doubled its fundraising this year,” added Brian Hazelgren, chief development officer, Children’s Miracle Network. “Stripes employees obviously went to extra lengths to reach their fundraising goals. Their dedication is inspiring and their efforts will help bring miracles into the lives of millions of patients at Children’s Miracle Network hospitals.”