Wendy's renowned for its dedication to foster care adoption, has announced an unprecedented achievement. In collaboration with the Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption, Wendy's has raised a staggering $22.6 million over the past year through initiatives such as "Make A Biggie Difference," coin canister collections, Boo! Books, and Frosty Key Tags, with sponsorship from Coca-Cola and Keurig Dr Pepper.
This remarkable sum is a testament to Wendy's long-standing commitment, spanning over three decades, to finding permanent homes for children in foster care. The funds raised directly support the Foundation's mission to significantly increase adoption rates for the more than 113,000 children in the U.S. currently awaiting adoption from foster care. Over the years, Wendy's and its supporters have amassed over $310 million for the cause, driven by the company's cause marketing efforts and the passionate participation of its fans and restaurant teams.
Critial Need for These Efforts
Lindsay Radkoski, Wendy's U.S. Chief Marketing Officer, expressed gratitude towards the Wendy's community for their unwavering support. She highlighted the critical need for these efforts, pointing out that nearly 20,000 youth age out of foster care annually in the U.S. without finding a forever family.
A notable highlight of this year's fundraising was the record-breaking $9.2 million raised through the 20th Boo! Books campaign. This year saw a first-time collaboration with Warner Bros. Discovery Global Consumer Products and DC, offering a DC-inspired coupon book with free Jr. Frosty treats and a special offer on Wendy's Kids' Meal. Additionally, the return of Frosty Key Tags in November, a fan favorite, contributed significantly to the cause, raising $12.5 million.
Photo: The Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption
Rita Soronen, President & CEO of the Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption, praised the Wendy's family for their enduring support. Thanks to these efforts, over 14,000 children in foster care in the U.S. and Canada have found loving, permanent families. The funds raised are crucial for expanding awareness campaigns and innovative programs aimed at serving more children in need of a forever home.
Wendy's founder, Dave Thomas, himself adopted, established the Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption in 1992. Both the Foundation and Wendy's are committed to realizing Thomas's vision of ensuring every child has a loving and permanent home. Through its Wendy's Wonderful Kids® program, the Foundation employs adoption professionals dedicated to finding families for children in foster care who are often overlooked.
About the Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption: A national, nonprofit public charity, the Foundation is dedicated to finding permanent homes for children waiting in North America's foster care systems. Implementing evidence-based programs and innovative grantmaking, the Foundation strives to ensure every child in foster care finds a forever family.
