Big Lots Launches Fifth Annual Lots2Give Program

COLUMBUS, Ohio, April 30, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Big Lots, Inc. (NYSE: BIG), North America's largest broadline closeout retailer, is announcing its 2012 Lots2Give program to help schools in need of financial support. Successful programs over the past four years have opened the door for this year's participating schools across America. The 250 selected schools will be recipients of an in-store donation program and will also have the opportunity to put their creativity to the test in an online video contest where they could win a share of $120,000 in cash prizes.

(Logo:  http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20011026/BIGLOTSLOGO)

"Big Lots is dedicated to enhancing the quality of education in the communities we serve," said Steve Fishman, Chairman, Chief Executive Officer and President. "We invite the public to join us in helping schools in need of financial support across the country."

Now through July 8, customers can help selected schools by donating $1 or $5 at participating Big Lots stores. One hundred percent of donations will go to participating schools.

"The Lots2Give program allows us to connect with schools in need of financial support," noted Rob Claxton, Senior Vice President of Marketing. "Seeing how schools have benefited from Lots2Give inspires and motivates all of us to support this program and continue to see its impact grow across the country – and this year we have increased the cash prizes, totaling $120,000."

Schools were selected based on geographic location and level of need as determined by Big Lots. The program could mean thousands of dollars for participating schools. As in years past, the public will be invited to vote online to determine the winners of the video contest and cash prizes.

For more information and a complete list of participating stores and schools, please visit www.biglots.com/lots2give.

About Big Lots, Inc.
Big Lots is North America's largest broadline closeout retailer. As of January 28, 2012, we operated 1,451 BIG LOTS stores in the 48 contiguous United States and more than 82 LIQUIDATION WORLD and LW stores in Canada. Wholesale operations are conducted through BIG LOTS WHOLESALE, CONSOLIDATED INTERNATIONAL, and WISCONSIN TOY and with online sales at www.biglotswholesale.com.

SOURCE Big Lots, Inc.