HY-Vee and Pinky Swear Foundation raise big money for pediatric cancer benefit

WEST DES MOINES, Iowa — Hy-Vee, in partnership with Pinky Swear Foundation, a national charitable organization that supports children with cancer and their families, announced this week that its summer events have raised more than $882,000 from 4,331 participants to support the organization’s critical mission.



“We are excited to share the results of the inaugural Hy-Vee Pinky Swear 5K & Fun Run fitness events, and our legacy event, the Hy-Vee Pinky Swear Kids Triathlon,” stated Erica Campbell, executive director of Pinky Swear Foundation. “We sincerely appreciate everyone in all of the communities who worked so hard to ensure the success of the six events—especially our mission partner, Hy-Vee. The money raised from registration fees, sponsorships and individual fundraisers is helping make a real impact to further our mission, which is to help kids with cancer.”



Rather than focus on competition, families of all fitness levels are encouraged to participate in the events to help raise money for kids with cancer and their families. The money raised provides assistance for basic needs and experiences that create emotional support to impacted families.



“We are proud to once again partner with Pinky Swear Foundation to reaffirm our commitment to health and wellness while helping families facing cancer deal with financial struggles,” said Darin Hirl, assistant VP sports marketing at Hy-Vee. “The fun run format increased accessibility for kids and families. We were pleased to see such a high participation rate in 2017.”