Employees at Pepsi Beverages Co., Munster, recently donated dozens of stuffed animals to Lake Area United Way for the “I Need a Hug” Program.
“Pepsi Munster was excited to collect stuffed animals for Lake Area United Way’s “I Need a Hug” campaign," said Pepsi Merchandising Manager, Evelina Swiech. “Pepsi employees collected 54 stuffed animals and $50 in cash to put smiles on local children’s faces.”
The United Way I Need a Hug program was developed in 2003 by the United Way Regional Volunteer Center in partnership with the Valparaiso Softball Team. Throughout the year, new, small stuffed animals are collected by businesses, groups, churches, book clubs, boards, and schools as well as local campus wide drives. These animals are given to the Guidance Counselors in our elementary schools to be used as counseling tools for students.
“We are very grateful to the Pepsi employees for taking the time to hold this drive and help make a difference in the lives of local students,” said Lou Martinez, President/CEO of Lake Area United Way.
For more information about Lake Area United Way, please visit: www.lauw.org. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram