Publix Launches 3-week ‘Miracle Balloon’ Campaign

Publix Super Markets is running a “Miracle Balloon” campaign in support of Children’s Miracle Network (CMN) Hospitals through June 15. The annual fundraiser will help improve the lives of sick and injured children in the five Southeastern states where Lakeland, Fla.-based Publix operates.

2012 marks the 21st year Publix employees and customers will join together to aid area CMN Hospitals by purchasing $1, $3 and $5 balloons at checkout. As well as helping fund a range of live-saving treatments, medical equipment and research, Publix shoppers receive in-store coupons of up to $20 in value as an incentive for their donation.

“Last year, Publix surpassed the $20 million mark in overall funds raised for our member hospitals,” said John Lauck, president and CEO of Salt Lake City-based Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals, which raises funds for more than 170 children’s hospitals across the United States and Canada. “These dollars have led to dramatic improvements in hospital necessities as well as services for uninsured or underinsured families.”

In addition to the Miracle Balloon campaign, Publix, together with select major food brands, is taking part in the “Produce for Kids” program running from May 31 to June 28, to raise further funds and encourage families to make better nutritional choices.

Privately owned and operated by its 151,500 employees, Publix has 1,051 stores in Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, Alabama and Tennessee.