OKLAHOMA CITY (Oct. 9, 2013) — During a nationwide five-week campaign, Love's Travel Stops and Country Stores set a new fundraising record for the chain by raising more than $2 million for Children's Miracle Network Hospitals across the country.
The total includes the company's truck stop in Hubbard, Ohio, raising more than $10,000 for Akron Children's Hospital.
More than 300 Love's locations nationwide contributed by selling paper donation hearts in the amounts of $1, $5, and $20. To raise money some Love's stores also organized local events such as bake sales, car washes, golf tournaments, motorcycle rallies, grand prize raffles and even kissing pigs.
"It is remarkable what customers and team members can accomplish together to make miracles happen for kids and their families," said Tom Love, company founder and CEO. "We are extremely proud of our store teams for raising a record amount for Children's Miracle Network Hospitals. We appreciate our customers' generosity in supporting our annual fundraising campaign."
Through the Children's Miracle Network Hospital program, all money raised at each Love's location supports the nearest Children's Miracle Network Hospital. The donations will help fund medical care, research and education that saves and improves the lives of 17 million children treated at network hospitals each year, Love's said.
This is truck stop chain's 15th year supporting Children's Miracle Network Hospitals with a fundraising campaign. The company has donated more than $9.5 million through the years.
"Year after year, Love's employees and customers put all of their heart into fundraising for their member hospitals—and not just at the register," said John Lauck, president and CEO of Children's Miracle Network Hospitals. "We continue to be inspired by the exceptional fundraising happening in every community Love's operates. The results are evident in the nearby hospitals and kids who rely on them for needed care."
Family-owned and operated Love's, based in Oklahoma City, operates more than 300 locations and 175 truck tire care centers in 39 states.