Fashion Bug Partners With Autism Speaks to Launch "Spare Change Makes a Difference" Campaign

BENSALEM, Pa., March 23, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Leading women's specialty retailer, Fashion Bug, is proud to announce the launch of its partnership with Autism Speaks™, the world's leading autism science and advocacy organization. Beginning March 25, 2012, Fashion Bug invites consumers to "round up at the register" and join in their effort to raise money for Autism Speaks' core mission of research, prevention, treatments and a cure for autism. 

This community awareness and fundraising campaign will take place from March 25 through April 7, 2012 at all Fashion Bug stores across the country. During this time, customers are encouraged to "round up" purchases to the next whole dollar amount and Fashion Bug will donate the spare change to Autism Speaks for support of the charity's programs.

"Autism is the fastest-growing serious developmental disability in the U.S., affecting an estimated 1.5 million people. We wanted to join forces with the organization leading the charge in research and advocacy for this pervasive disorder," said MaryEllen MacDowell, President of Fashion Bug, about the partnership. "Our customers are very compassionate and together we know we can make a significant contribution to Autism Speaks through the 'Spare Change Makes a Difference' campaign."

Fashion Bug will also be supporting World Autism Awareness Day on April 2nd. This year marks the 3rd annual "Light It Up Blue" campaign created by Autism Speaks during which thousands of buildings and landmarks around the world, including Fashion Bug Headquarters in Bensalem, PA, shine a blue light to raise awareness for autism. 

For more information about the Autism Speaks Register Round-Up Campaign, please contact your local Fashion Bug store. For retail locations, please visit FashionBug.com.

About Fashion Bug:

With over 600 specialty stores nationwide, Fashion Bug offers the best fashion trends, wardrobe basics, shoes, accessories, intimates and more for plus, misses and juniors size women at prices that fit her budget. Fashion Bug is owned and operated by Charming Shoppes, Inc. For more information about Fashion Bug and to see and shop the latest fashion assortment, please visit FashionBug.com. 

About Autism:

Autism is a general term used to describe a group of complex developmental brain disorders – autism spectrum disorders – caused by a combination of genes and environmental influences. These disorders are characterized, in varying degrees, by social and behavioral challenges, as well as repetitive behaviors. An estimated 1 in 110 children in the U.S. is on the autism spectrum – a 600 percent increase in the past two decades that is only partly explained by improved diagnosis.

About Autism Speaks:

Autism Speaks is the world's leading autism science and advocacy organization. It was founded in February 2005 by Suzanne and Bob Wright, the grandparents of a child with autism. Since its inception, Autism Speaks has made enormous strides, committing over $173 million to research and developing innovative resources for families. The organization is dedicated to funding research into the causes, prevention, treatments and a cure for autism; increasing awareness of autism spectrum disorders; and advocating for the needs of individuals with autism and their families. In addition to funding research, Autism Speaks has created resources and programs including the Autism Speaks Autism Treatment Network, Autism Speaks' Autism Genetic Resource Exchange and several other scientific and clinical programs. Notable awareness initiatives include the establishment of the annual United Nations-sanctioned World Autism Awareness Day on April 2, which Autism Speaks celebrates through its Light It Up Blue initiative. Also, Autism Speaks' award-winning "Learn the Signs" campaign with the Ad Council has received over $316 million in donated media. Autism Speaks' family resources include the Autism Video Glossary, a 100 Day Kit for newly-diagnosed families, a School Community Tool Kit, a Grandparent's Guide to Autism, and a community grant program. Autism Speaks has played a critical role in securing federal legislation to advance the government's response to autism, and has successfully advocated for insurance reform to cover behavioral treatments in 29 states thus far, with legislation continuing to advance in more states. Each year Walk Now for Autism Speaks events are held in more than 80 cities across North America. To learn more about Autism Speaks, please visit www.autismspeaks.org.

SOURCE Fashion Bug