Big Lots gives back in a big way

Big Lots hopes to give back to the communities it serves with a new charity focused on hunger, housing, health care and education.

Big Lots has announced that it has launched a nonprofit foundation to guide its charitable endeavors into the future.

The Big Lots Foundation will help strengthen the Company's philanthropic initiatives and support its commitment to making a difference in the communities where it operates.

"The Big Lots Foundation is our way of standing together — with our business partners, customers, and 35,000 associates across the country — to address some of the most pressing issues facing our communities," said CEO and President David Campisi. "This will be a game-changer for us and our nonprofit partners, allowing us to have a much greater impact over time."

The Big Lots Foundation will focus the company's charitable giving on four areas of need: hunger, housing, health care, and education. These key areas align with company values and address basic needs of families and children in the communities and neighborhoods that Big Lots serves.

"Big Lots has always been a company that cares, and our associates, customers, and business partners are passionate about getting involved and making a difference," noted Philanthropy Director Jeremy Ball. "The Big Lots Foundation will align our efforts on a national level and make a greater impact with important causes."

Several organizations will receive major support from the Foundation, including: Nationwide Children's Hospital (health care), the Ohio State University (education), Feeding America and the Mid-Ohio Foodbank (hunger), and the YWCA (housing). Cause-related marketing campaigns will engage store associates and customers across the country.

Headquartered in Columbus, Ohio, Big Lots Inc. is a discount retailer operating 1,460 Big Lots stores in 48 states.