The 2017 Holiday Match charity program conducted annually by Stewart’s Shops raised $1.89 million for local children’s organizations.
Company officials said the fund drive set a record for the fourth consecutive season.
From Thanksgiving Day through Christmas Day, Stewart’s customers donated $945,000 to the program, which is an increase of approximately $19,000 over last season. Each individual donation is matched penny-for-penny by Stewart’s Shops.
There are no administrative costs and 100 percent of the funds benefit local, nonprofit children’s organizations.
“This program is proof that your small change can really add up and make a big impact on local kids,” said Stewart’s Shops President Gary Dake. “Teaming up with our customers to support our communities is just another reason why we say, we are closer to you.”
“The success of the Holiday Match Program continues with the hard work of our shop partners and the generosity of our customers,” said Stewart’s Foundation President Susan Dake. “Together we will help thousands of children with organizations that will support children year-round.”
The program has raised nearly $26 million to date. Over 1,700 children’s organizations received funding from the last campaign, according to the company.
Children’s charities can apply for funding from the program through Jan. 31.
Organizations can fill out an online application at stewartsshops.com or pick up a paper application at any shop. All groups applying must be locally based, benefit children under 18 and be a qualified, charitable 501c3 organization.
A brochure listing charities that received Holiday Match funding last year is available at stewartsshops.com. Funds will be allocated in March.