WASHINGTON, Aug. 9 -- The American Red Cross and Ty Inc. are initiating a new program that will bring comfort to hundreds of thousands of families, who need vital assistance following disasters each year. Through the "New Buddy Program," Ty will be donating 150,000 new Beanie Buddies to the Red Cross to be used in its more than 73,000 disaster relief operations across the country.
"In times of disaster, whether it be a single family fire or an incident that affects an entire community, victims need more than just food and shelter -- they need emotional support, especially children," said Fred Dornback, mental health volunteer at the Red Cross. "Thanks to Ty, we will be able to offer a child security and comfort when they need it most."
Of the 150,000 Beanie Buddies donated, a portion will be held at a Red Cross distribution center for use in national relief efforts, while the majority of Buddies will be sent to local chapters across the country.
"As a company focused on providing fun and enjoyable products, everyone at Ty is proud that our Beanie Buddy will help a child emotionally during a time of crisis," said Michael Kanzler of Ty. "We know the American Red Cross will put them to good use, and that makes us very happy."
"The Red Cross is grateful for Ty's generous donation of Beanie Buddies," said Skip Seitz, senior vice president of Growth and Integrated Development, American Red Cross. "When a family suffers through a disaster, it is a priority for the Red Cross to help provide comfort and care in the midst of turmoil. Ty's donation of Beanie Buddies helps us make that happen."
Ty Warner, President and owner of Ty Inc. has graciously donated to the American Red Cross throughout the years. In response to the tragic occurrences of September 11, Mr. Warner donated more than $2 million, which was generated through the sale of three unique Beanie Babies, for Red Cross disaster relief services nationally and locally.
"Ty is a committed supporter and they continue to help us fulfill our promise of always being there when people are in need," Seitz concluded.
The American Red Cross is dedicated to saving lives, easing suffering and restoring hope at home and around the world. The Red Cross annually mobilizes relief to the victims of more than 73,000 disasters nationwide and has been the primary supplier of lifesaving blood and blood products in the United States for more than 50 years. Last year, the Red Cross also trained almost 12 million people in vital lifesaving skills and delivered more than 21 million locally relevant community services. The organization also assisted international disaster and conflict victims in close to 40 locations around the globe, and its emergency communication centers processed 1.2 million calls in support of U.S. military families.
Ty is the largest manufacturer and marketer of plush toys worldwide. Ty's plush products include the popular Beanie Babies(R), Pluffies(TM), Punkies(TM), Teenie Beanie Boppers(TM), Beanie Boppers(TM), Beanie Buddies(TM), Beanie Kids(TM), Ty Classic(TM), Baby Ty(TM) and Attic Treasures(TM). Ty products are sold in finer retail stores and are easily recognizable by the world-famous red Ty heart logo.
