Sailormen Inc., the nation’s largest Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen franchise, contributed $475,000 to the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) during the 2010 Jerry Lewis MDA Telethon over Labor Day Weekend. The Miami-based company ran a successful in-store coupon book promotion, “Appetite for a Cure,” where customers purchased Popeyes coupon cards for a $1 donation. Additionally, Sailormen held its sixth annual Popeye’s Golf Classic for MDA.

“Popeyes customers are an incredibly loyal group, so MDA is truly blessed to have Popeyes associates asking patrons to help advance our lifesaving mission,” says MDA president, CEO, and telethon executive producer Gerald C. Weinberg. “No one should be surprised by results from the national taste test showing that Popeyes chicken beats KFC. Popeyes employees are passionate about helping their communities, and their passion for excellence is evident in everything they do.

“The final tote of $58,919,838 represents the generous support of company’s like Popeyes and from the public during [the] telethon,” Weinberg says.

“Sailormen is proud to support MDA in the communities we serve,’’ says Mark Reineri, Sailormen’s vice president of marketing. “We like the fact that the money we raise stays local. It’s a reason why our employees get behind our efforts. We have dedicated employees who are ready and willing to help MDA and its quest for treatments and cures.”