May Matters for Millions of Kids Treated at Children's Miracle Network Hospitals

Miracle Balloon Icons Make Their Way to Major Retailers, Donations Benefit Local Member Hospitals

SALT LAKE CITY, May 2, 2012 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- More than a dozen North American outlets, thousands of store employees, and millions of supporters are dedicating the month of May to help sick and injured kids receiving treatment at Children's Miracle Network Hospitals®. The children's charity, which raises critical funds for its 170 member hospitals, is celebrating these efforts by declaring "May is for Miracles" with the re-launch of its microsite www.mayisformiracles.org as well as daily funds-in-action updates for its online social community.

"Whether shopping for groceries, picking up a prescription, browsing for home goods or enjoying a movie, folks are likely to notice the yellow and red 'Miracle Balloon' this month as they make their purchases," said John Lauck, president and CEO of Children's Miracle Network Hospitals. "The decision to give a dollar has a near-immediate impact, as donations directly benefit the nearest member hospital to provide life-saving care — from the most basic medical supplies to the most advanced treatment and equipment."

Last year, May campaigns raised significant funds, helping Children's Miracle Network Hospitals report its best fundraising year yet at $264 million, a 13 percent increase over 2010. Lauck noted that every dollar of these funds is crucial, given the $2.5 billion in overall uncompensated care alone that member hospitals provide. "May fundraising efforts are a big reason our hospitals can treat 17 million kids each year. The month exemplifies all our corporate partners' year-round commitment to saving and improving kids' lives."

Visit www.mayisformiracles.org to discover who's helping make miracles this month, how supporters can get involved, or to connect with CMN Hospitals on Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest.

About Children's Miracle Network Hospitals

Children's Miracle Network Hospitals® raises funds for 170 children's hospitals across the United States and Canada, which, in turn, use the money where it's needed the most. When a donation is given it stays in the community, helping local kids. Since 1983, Children's Miracle Network Hospitals has raised more than $4 billion, most of it $1 at a time. These donations have gone to support research and training, purchase equipment, and pay for uncompensated care, all in support of the mission to save and improve the lives of as many children as possible. Learn more at www.CMNHospitals.org.

SOURCE Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals