Retailer donates up to $400K of toy sales

Retailer donates up to $400K of toy sales

Meijer stores feature more than 40 departments, including toys. Photo via fb.com

A retailer has committed to give up to $400,000 from its toy sales this holiday season to children’s gift-giving charities.

Meijer in Grand Rapids said last week that it has launched its Share the Smiles campaign to help fund a variety of programs across the Midwest such as Toys for Tots.

Some of the donations will be a "surprise," said Christina Fetcher, a Meijer spokesperson.

“Not all of the organizations are aware that they are receiving the donation yet," Fetcher said.

Purchases made through Dec. 19 on about 300 toys at Meijer stores — including 38 national brands like Fisher-Price, Barbie, Lego and Nerf — will be counted toward the donations in Michigan, Ohio, Indiana, Illinois and Kentucky.

"Meijer wants to help make the holidays happier for hundreds of children, because every child deserves to experience the joy of unwrapping a toy," said Dan Myers, divisional merchandise manager of toys, Meijer. "We know how much value our customers place on sharing their good fortune, and we believe the Share the Smiles campaign will create lasting memories for children in need."

Meijer donates more than 6 percent of its net profit to charities each year.