Walgreens' Red Nose Day campaign a hit with shoppers

A British charity has brought its highly successful fundraising event across the pond, with a lot of help from Walgreens.

The drugstore chain has raised $7 million, exceeding its goal of raising $5 million through red nose and vendor partner product sales, as well as in-store donations in support of the nationwide fundraising campaign, Red Nose Day. With a limited amount of red noses remaining for purchase, Walgreens is offering additional ways for customers to show support.

"Our incredible partnership with the Red Nose Day campaign is one more way that Walgreens can continue to fulfill its purpose – to champion everyone's right to be happy and healthy," said Alex Gourlay, president of Walgreens. "We're absolutely thrilled to have exceeded our fundraising goal, but the real recognition is owed to our customers and team members who embraced the spirit of this cause and joined us for a good laugh along the way. We hope more people will keep this outstanding momentum going by offering support through the final hours of the campaign."



Through May 30, Walgreens customers can make donations to support Red Nose Day in-store or by purchasing select products at Walgreens from vendor partners such as Mars, Kraft and Coca-Cola. They also can tune in and donate during NBC's televised fundraising event May 21 (8-11 p.m. Eastern time). Customers are even encouraged to get creative, flexing their DIY skills for a personal take on the red nose and take a #RedNose selfie.



Organized by Comic Relief, Red Nose Day has been celebrated in the United Kingdom for more than 25 years. Red Nose Day's campaign culminates in NBC's televised fundraising event in New York on May 21. The live, three-hour benefit will feature popular comedians, top musicians and Hollywood stars, a mix of great comedy, live musical performances and short films shedding light on the cause.