Forty Winks has donated $100,000 to the Starlight ChildrenÕs Foundation of Australia as the first initiative in a new partnership with the charity whose mission is to brighten the lives of seriously ill and hospitalized children and their families across the country. The retail franchise groupÕs contribution will equate to 20 dreams coming true for children aged from four to 21 years of age through StarlightÕs Wish Granting Program.

Each of the Forty WinksÕ stores has contributed about $1000 with the retail head office topping the amount up with a $10,000 figure. All the franchisees will be involved in future events and fundraisers, starting with a campaign to coincide with the Starlight Day in May.

The retailer has previously supported a variety of charitable causes across its franchise network; this arrangement with Starlight formalizes a brand message and community commitment. Doug McNamara, chairman of the Forty Winks board, said “The board recognized it was time to harness the fund raising efforts of our 90 plus stores across Australia to become far more effective and meaningful to the general community. IÕm really pleased at the way our stores have embraced and supported our corporate social responsibilities.”

James Hayward, general manager of Forty Winks, said “I believe that corporate social responsibility is consistent with good business ethics and is a fundamental platform for the company and community.”