Macy's Be Book Smart Campaign Gives Nearly 900,000 Books to Children in Need This Summer

WASHINGTON, July 18, 2014 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- In the 11^th year of a partnership that has provided more than 10 million books for children in need, Reading Is Fundamental (RIF) and Macy's Be Book Smart campaign raised $2.6 million this summer to provide nearly 900,000 books to children in underserved communities across America. This summer, the Be Book Smart campaign was held in Macy's stores nationwide from June 18 through July 13 and invited customers to make donations to help give books to local children.

"We believe in the power of books to strengthen local communities, and the Macy's Be Book Smart campaign shows that we can make a meaningful difference," said Martine Reardon, Macy's chief marketing officer. "We are proud to support Reading Is Fundamental's work to inspire a love of reading and bring the joy of books to children who need them most."

Macy's long history of support has enabled RIF to promote literacy on multiple levels, engaging children and empowering educators and parents with easy-to-use literacy resources. Through customer supported fundraising campaigns, in-store events, and volunteer activities, Macy's has helped RIF further its important mission to prepare and motivate young people to read. RIF is the nation's largest children's literacy nonprofit.

"We are extremely grateful for the critical support and commitment of Macy's, as well as its dedicated associates and caring customers," said Carol H. Rasco, president and CEO of RIF. "Thanks to Macy's generosity, millions of children have had the opportunity to explore the world through books and reach for their dreams."

Since 2004, Macy's support for RIF's work to promote children's literacy has exceeded $32 million. Through Be Book Smart, Macy's customers have donated $3 to give books to children in need in local communities, and Macy's contributed 100 percent of the funds raised to RIF.

About RIF
Reading Is Fundamental (RIF) delivers free books and literacy resources to children and families in underserved communities in the United States. By giving children the opportunity to own a book, RIF inspires them to become lifelong readers and achieve their full potential. As the nation's largest children's literacy nonprofit, RIF has placed 410 million books in the hands of more than 39 million children since it was established in 1966. Learn more and help RIF provide books to kids who need them most, visit RIF.org.

About Macy's
Macy's, the largest retail brand of Macy's, Inc., delivers fashion and affordable luxury to customers at approximately 800 locations in 45 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and Guam, as well as to customers in the U.S. and more than 100 international destinations through its leading online store at macys.com. Via its stores, e-commerce site, mobile and social platforms, Macy's offers distinctive assortments including the most desired family of exclusive and fashion brands for him, her and home. Macy's is known for such epic events as Macy's 4th of July Fireworks^® and the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade^®, as well as spectacular fashion shows, culinary events, flower shows and celebrity appearances. Macy's flagship stores -- including Herald Square in New York City, Union Square in San Francisco, State Street in Chicago, Dadeland in Miami and South Coast Plaza in southern California -- are known internationally and leading destinations for visitors. Building on a more than 150-year tradition, and with the collective support of customers and employees, Macy's helps strengthen communities by supporting local and national charities giving more than $70 million each year to help make a difference in the lives of our customers.

For Macy's media materials, images and contacts, please visit our online pressroom at www.macys.com/pressroom

SOURCE Reading Is Fundamental