COLUMBUS, Ohio, April 25, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Big Lots (NYSE: BIG) today announced its 2011 Lots2Give program to help schools in need of financial support. Successful programs over the past three years have opened the door for this year's participating schools across America. Those 204 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 $100,000 in cash prizes.

"Big Lots is actively involved in supporting the quality of education in the communities we serve," said CEO Steve Fishman. "We invite parents, educators, and every caring adult to join us in helping schools in need across the country."

Now through July 4, 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.

This year's video contest grand prize has been increased to $20,000. "It's our biggest one ever," noted Rob Claxon, 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."

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.

Headquartered in Columbus, Ohio, Big Lots (NYSE: BIG) is a Fortune 500 company with more than 1,400 stores in 48 states. As the nation's largest broadline closeout retailer, Big Lots offers consumers a wide range of bargain-priced merchandise, including brand-name closeouts, seasonal products, consumables, furniture, housewares, toys, and gifts. The Company also sells merchandise through BIG LOTS WHOLESALE, CONSOLIDATED INTERNATIONAL, and WISCONSIN TOY, and www.biglotswholesale.com.

SOURCE Big Lots