Wreaths Across America, a nonprofit organization founded to continue and expand the annual wreath-laying ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery, today announced that Jersey Mike’s donated $100,000 to Wreaths Across America.
All of the funds raised will help Wreaths Across America accomplish its mission to place 220,000 wreaths — one at every fallen hero’s headstone — at Arlington National Cemetery on the National Day of Remembrance on Saturday, Dec. 10, 2011. This is the first time in Arlington’s history that every veteran will be recognized with a wreath and brief moment of silence.
From June 27 through July 11, Jersey Mike’s celebrated “Christmas in July” with a nationwide fundraising and awareness campaign to benefit Wreaths Across America.
Every Jersey Mike’s location participated in the campaign, encouraging friends, family, customers, and community members to donate to the cause. Each location also distributed specially designed cards thanking soldiers for their sacrifice and service.
“Donations are critical to successfully execute an event of this size and scope,” says Karen Worcester, executive director, Wreaths Across America.
“We are touched by Jersey Mike’s time, energy and commitment to our mission. This donation is tremendous and will help us honor those who fought to protect our freedoms. We thank everyone involved for supporting us as we strive to make Dec. 10than unforgettable day. We look forward to sharing in this special journey with them.”
Fifty trucks are taking part in Wreaths Across America’sweek-long annual pilgrimage from Harrington, Maine, to Arlington National Cemetery to deliver the wreaths.
Known as the world’s largest veterans parade, the Wreaths Across America convoy will stop at schools, monuments, veterans’ homes, and communities along the way to remind people of the organization’s mission to teach younger generations about the value of their freedom and the importance of honoring those who sacrificed their lives to protect those freedoms.
“As I travel throughout the country, I see welcoming parties gathering at airports to greet returning soldiers, and travelers going out of their way to thank those in uniform for their service to our country,” says Peter Cancro, Jersey Mike's founder and CEO.
“As we celebrated our nation's independence in July, Jersey Mike's was proud to join and support Wreaths Across America in its mission to Remember the fallen, Honor those who serve and their families, and Teach our children the value of freedom.”
Jersey Mike’s franchise owners from around the country will be present at Arlington National Cemetery on Dec. 10 to support Wreaths Across America.
Volunteers, donations and sponsorships are still needed. To learn more, follow Wreaths Across America on Facebook at http://Facebook.com/
