Hallmark to donate $1.5 Million to Toys for Tots

Hallmar has partnered with Toys for Tots and pledged to donate $1.5 million in toys and funds to the organization this holiday season.

For 50 years, watching the television classicRudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer has been a holiday tradition for millions of families. This holiday season, Hallmark Gold Crown stores will be full of ways to celebrate the generous spirit of Rudolph and give back through a partnership withToys for Tots.

"We're excited to help families experience the magic of the season through this program," saidJohn X. Watson, president Hallmark retail. "What better way to spread holiday cheer and make children happy than with help from the iconic characters of Rudolph?"

Now throughChristmas Eve, Hallmark Gold Crown stores are offering two ways customers can help the company provide donations and toys to families in need:

In a "Buy a Buddy, Give a Buddy" program, each time a customer buys an Interactive Story Buddyat a Hallmark Gold Crown store, Hallmark will donate an Interactive Story Buddy to Toys for Tots. Available for$34.95, these interactive plush characters help bring story time to life. Rudolph's nose glows as he responds to key phrases in the story when read aloud.

Also, for each purchase of Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer50th Anniversary itty bittys (Santa Claus, Clarice or Bumble) priced at $6.95 each, Hallmark will donate$1to Toys for Tots.

"We want to ensure children have presents to open when they wake up Christmas morning," said retiredMarine Major Bill Grein, vp marketing and development, Marine Toys for Tots Foundation. "Whether it's through a Story Buddy or another toy made possible by this program, we're thankful Hallmark is helping us create a magical holiday for children in need."

Hallmark anticipates that it will be able to donate up to$1.5 millionin retail product value and additional cash funds to Toys for Tots this holiday season. Last year, the charity provided more than 16 million toys to nearly 7million less fortunate children nationwide.

A donation presentation to Toys for Tots will take placeNov. 30, during the 83rd annual Hollywood Christmas Parade inLos Angeles, Calif., which will be aired on Hallmark ChannelDec. 10.