Shop For a Cause at Macy's This Saturday

Shoppers that need to finish up some back-to-school buys or enjoy incoming fall selections can enjoy special discounts while helping out a charitable cause this Saturday.

The “Shop for a Cause” event held at participating Macy's locations, including Lakeside Mal, will benefit the March of Dimes, which aims reduce and prevent birth defects. The organization was founded initially in 1938 by President Franklin Roosevelt.

Customers will be able to donate money to charity by purchasing a shopping pass, which will entitle them to enjoy discounts on most regular and clearance merchandise. One hundred percent of passes sold at Macy’s between Aug. 20-27 will benefit the March of Dimes. Additionally, local charities were also able to take part in the effort by selling passes of their own, giving customers a chance to support different groups in the community.

“Shop for a Cause is a great way for our customers to make a positive difference and enjoy great savings at Macy's,” said Jeff Gallagher, the vice president and store manager of Macy’s at Fairlane Mall. “Overall, we find it gives our customers a great feeling–they can save money, enjoy a fun shopping experience and help special causes in the community."

Shop for a Cause began in 2006, and since then, it has raised $38 million for national and local charities. Local charities that are selling passes must have 501c 3 status and tax-exempt status.

Some of Michigan's littlest residents are affected by issues related to preterm birth. According to the Kids Count 2011 report, which is compiled by the Annie E. Casey Foundation, the number of low-birth-weight babies has increased from 120 in 2005 to 129 in 2009.

Additionally, the number of births that took place where the mother had less than average prenatal care spiked from 337 in 2003 to 569 in 2008. Preterm births, however, decreased from 166 in 2005 to 142 in 2009, the report indicated.

At the Macy's at Lakeside Mall, a saxophone player will serenade the shoppers as they raise money for a great cause. 

Passes are available at the March of Dimes website at www.marchofdimes.com until Aug. 27. Customers who want to purchase a ticket to benefit a specific nonprofit organization can look up participating charities on www.macys.com/shopforacause.