Kmart Steps Out to Fight Diabetes( Kmart aligns with the American Di...),Health

Kmart aligns with the American Diabetes Association to raise funds through in-store 'pin-up' campaign

ALEXANDRIA, Va., Oct. 1 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The American Diabetes Association (ADA) today announced that Kmart has reinforced its commitment to ADA and elevated its support for the diabetes community by becoming a National Strategic Partner (NSP). As a National Strategic Partner, Kmart will raise at least $1 million to support ADA's mission to prevent and cure diabetes, and to improve the lives of all people affected by diabetes.

Kmart's relationship with ADA began in 2006. Kmart's customers and associates raised more than $900,000 through its in-store pin-up campaign in the Kmart pharmacies. In an attempt to increase awareness of diabetes and support for the cause, Kmart has expanded its fund-raising effort to the entire store. Kmart customers can make a donation of $1, $5 or $10 at registers. Kmart is also forming 'Step Out to Fight Diabetes" walk teams, promoting ADA and diabetes messages throughout all 1,400 Kmart stores nationwide, and participating in select ADA Diabetes EXPO events.

"Kmart's commitment to the diabetes community should not go unnoticed, particularly as the company embarks on such an ambitious fund-raising goal," said Darlene Cain, Chair of the Board, American Diabetes Association. "Kmart recognizes the need to take a bold stance in the fight against diabetes. Its action to mobilize the support of all of its stores across the country to support ADA's mission and raise awareness about the seriousness of diabetes speaks volumes."

In addition to Kmart's pin-up campaign and support of ADA's Step Out to Fight Diabetes walk fund-raising event, Kmart has also signed on to sponsor ADA's new Planet D - Explore. Discover. Connect. Youth Initiative, which is slated to be unveiled nationwide in early 2008.

Kmart is also sponsoring a pilot program in Fall 2007 to support ADA's Planet D Youth Initiative in
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