PHILADELPHIA — Icahn Automotive Group L.L.C.'s Pep Boys chain has become a national sponsor of Toys for Tots, the U.S. Marines charity that distributes toys to children in need during the Christmas holidays.
Starting Nov. 4, Toys for Tots donation bins will be set up in service waiting areas of Pep Boys locations throughout the country where customers can donate new, unwrapped toys.
Customers who donate at the stores will receive 25% off their purchase of parts, accessories or service, the company said.
Pep Boys corporate offices and distribution centers also will have bins so the company's 22,000 employees can also participate, Icahn said.
"Pep Boys has long been a part of our local communities and a supporter of our nation's military. As a national service network, a partnership with the Marine Toys for Tots Program was a perfect fit to contribute to the community and bring joy to children during the holiday season," Brian Kaner, service CEO, said.
"Having toy collection bins in their nearly 1,000 locations across the country will provide an opportunity for even more donors to find a location in their neighborhood to assist children-in-need," said Ted Silvester, vice president, marketing and development, for Toys for Tots and a retired marine colonel.
"Pep Boys community service efforts certainly align with those the Marine Corps has promoted for over 72 years through our Toys for Tots program and their support will enable us to fulfill the Christmas holiday dreams of less fortunate children."
As a corporate sponsor, Pep Boys has committed a $25,000 donation and, over the next two months, employees will work with dedicated U.S. Marines and Toys for Tots volunteers in their areas to collect and distribute toys. Pep Boys teams will be holding local donation drives and events, including car shows and cruise-ins where admission will include a Toys for Tots donation.