May is for Miracles: Childrens Miracle Network at Walmart

Are you familiar with the Children’s Miracle Network? I’ll be honest. I could tell you that they are a charity, that they had to do with kids, and that at certain times of year you can “buy” little paper balloons at Walmart to help contribute. But honestly? I didn’t really know what they did until Walmart asked all of us Walmart Moms to help spread the word about their annual fundraising campaign.

So I did what any good blogger would do when they aren’t sure about something. I googled it And of course I came up with the CMN website where they succinctly described their mission:

Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals® raises funds for 170 children’s hospitals across North America, which, in turn, use the money where it’s needed the most. When a donation is given it stays in the community, ensuring that every dollar is helping local kids. Since 1983, Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals has raised more than $4 billion, most of it $1 at a time. These donations have gone to support research and training, purchase equipment, and pay for uncompensated care, all in support of our mission to save and improve the lives of as many children as possible.

I also found out that the CMN was founded by Marie Osmond-which probably doesn’t mean anything to you younger readers, but to me Marie will always be remembered from my childhood as part of the brother sister TV duo-The Osmonds!

Every year Walmart supports the Children’s Miracle Network for the month of May-after all “May is for Miracles”-and this year they have extended their campaign through June 15th! Participating is easy-You can make a $1 or $2 donation at the register of any Walmart and the money will automatically be earmarked for the Children’s Miracle Network Hospital in your community.

I have to admit-that is one of the things I really like about the Children’s Miracle Network–that they take such pride in keeping funds within the community where they are generated. Of course if you don’t have a CMN children’s hospital in your local community, the money goes to the one closest geographically. (Wondering where your closest CMN children’s hospital is? Use the CMN Hospital Search to see)

I think it is wonderful that the local hospitals are allowed to decide how that money is best spent. These donations have gone to support things like research and training, purchasing equipment, and paying for uncompensated care.

So please, the next time you are shopping at Walmart, consider spending that extra $1 or $2 dollars at the register to support this wonderful cause!