CARY, N.C. -- The Pantry Inc. said that its Florida Kangaroo Express locations are collecting donations for Give Kids The World Village (GKTW), a 70-acre, nonprofit "storybook" village in Central Florida that provides cost-free, weeklong vacations for children with life-threatening illnesses and their families.
Through November 4, guests can donate to Give Kids The World at any of the almost 400 Florida Kangaroo Express convenience stores by purchasing a $1 or $5 pin up to hang in the store, or by donating their change at the register.
GKTW provides accommodations at its whimsical resort, donated attractions tickets, meals and more for a weeklong, cost-free fantasy vacation. With the help of many generous individuals, corporations and partnering wish-granting organizations, Give Kids The World has welcomed more than 110,000 families from all 50 states and more than 70 countries.
"Give Kids The World is a compassionate and dedicated nonprofit that helps share the magic found here in our backyard of Central Florida with kids from all over the world," said Paul Moody, division vice president at Kangaroo Express. "We are honored to do our part in helping fulfill the wishes of these inspiring children and their families."
GKTW president Pam Landwirth, said, "We want to extend a heartfelt thank you to Kangaroo Express all the great people of Florida who purchase a pin up to help raise money for our organization. Their donation will help Give Kids The World continue its mission to provide the happiness that inspires hope for children battling a life-threatening illness."
Every year, GKTW fulfills the wishes of more than 7,000 children with life-threatening illnesses from around the world whose one desire is to visit the theme parks of Central Florida. While staying at the whimsical GKTW 'Village', these children and their families learn that dreams really do come true as they are immersed in joy, hope and nonstop fun for a few unforgettably happy days.
Based in Cary, N.C., The Pantry is a leading independently operated convenience store chain in the southeastern United States and one of the largest independently operated c-store chains in the country. As of August 8, 2011, it operated 1,655 stores in 13 states under select banners, including Kangaroo Express, its primary operating banner.
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