Media Contacts:
Cindy Metzger, Easter Seals
P: 312.551.7144
cmetzger@easterseals.com
www.easterseals.com/media
Lynn Bolton, Friendly’s Ice Cream, LLC
P: 413.731.4239
lynn.bolton@friendlys.com
www.friendlys.com
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Fundraiser to Support Easter Seals Camp Friendly’s
Chicago, April 7, 2014 – Friendly’s Ice Cream, LLC launches its 33rd annual promotion for Easter Seals. The April fundraiser will benefit Easter Seals Camp Friendly’s programs up and down the East Coast.
This year’s campaign will feature two new elements. For a $2 donation to Easter Seals, kids will receive their kids meal served on a Friendly’s frisbee and for a $1 donation, guests can get a discount card good for 10% off all purchases through May 18. The donations will go to Easter Seals Camp Friendly’s. The campaign runs April 7-27, 2014.
Funds raised will support Easter Seals Camp Friendly’s programs essential to building a sense of independence and accomplishment for thousands of children annually. Easter Seals Camp Friendly’s provides an opportunity for kids with disabilities to be included in regular camp activities like, boating and canoeing, swimming, archery, ropes courses, horseback riding, hiking, basketball and fishing.
Celebrating More Than 30 Years of Partnership with Easter Seals
Friendly’s successful campaign for Easter Seals is an annual tradition where guests and employees across the restaurant chain help change the lives of thousands of children with disabilities through their efforts. The campaign has raised more than $28 million to date — more than $402,000 in 2013 alone — to benefit Easter Seals Camp Friendly’s program locations across the country.
“Friendly’s has never been more committed to engaging its employees, restaurant guests and local communities in our cause,” said James E. Williams, Jr., President and Chief Executive Officer, Easter Seals. Their commitment to Easter Seals makes a real difference in the lives of the many families our organization serves.”
John M. Maguire, Chief Executive Officer and President of Friendly’s and Member of Easter Seals National Board of Directors said, “We are very excited about this new campaign with its two new elements – the Friendly’s frisbee and discount card. We know our guests will be excited about these changes as well. Contributions to Easter Seals make it possible for children with disabilities to have a great summer camp experience and our guests and restaurant teams are looking forward to the 2014 campaign.”
About Friendly’s Ice Cream LLC
Friendly’s Ice Cream, LLC is a vertically integrated restaurant company, with an iconic brand name, serving signature sandwiches, burgers and ice cream desserts in a friendly, family environment. Together with its broad franchisee base, the company has system-wide sales of over $550 million and distribution through over 8,000 retail locations. For 78 years, Friendly’s restaurants and dedicated service teams have delighted generations of guests. For the future, Friendly’s has plans for new food and ice cream products, enhanced buildings, and new service channels. In 2014, Friendly”s won a Technomic Chain Restaurant Consumers’ Choice Award, in the category of “kid-friendly restaurant.” For additional information please visit www.friendlys.com.
About Easter Seals
For nearly 100 years, Easter Seals has provided life-changing solutions to the people of our country. From children and adults living with disabilities, to military families looking to serve their communities, Easter Seals is committed to creating a world of inclusion, dignity, empowerment and independence. We personalize solutions for individuals with autism, and intellectual and physical disabilities through innovative therapy, training, education and support services. Support children and adults with disabilities at www.easterseals.com.