After eight successful years in the United States that have raised
nearly $13 million for Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals and other
local causes, IHOP® restaurants plan to expand its National
Pancake Day campaign into Canada for the first time this year.
IHOP's National Pancake Day fundraising effort expands to Canada this year for the first time in the fundraiser's eight-year history. (Photo: Business Wire)
On National Pancake Day, March 4, 2014, the more than 20 IHOP
restaurants throughout Canada will be participating in the 15 hours of
pancake delight, when millions of free pancakes will be served from 7
a.m. to 10 p.m. In exchange for the free short stacks, customers are
encouraged to leave a voluntary donation in support of Children’s
Miracle Network’s local children’s hospitals.
“Our guests, our franchisees, their team members, and all of us at IHOP
look forward to National Pancake Day every year and this year, even more
so, knowing we will be expanding the program into Canada for the first
time and help Children’s Miracle Network to improve the lives of
children in need in Canada,” said Julia Stewart, Interim President,
International House of Pancakes, LLC and CEO of the parent company,
DineEquity, Inc. “I’m especially proud that what started as a grass
roots effort in a few IHOP markets nine years ago has now grown into a
significant and truly international event.”
“We are thrilled that IHOP is bringing National Pancake Day to Canada
and are grateful that they have chosen to support our hospitals with the
money they will raise," said John Hartman, Chief Operating Officer,
Children's Miracle Network. “Enjoying a free short stack of delicious
pancakes while making a donation is a terrific way for people to improve
the lives of sick children in their own community.”
“Our franchisees in Canada are excited to be part of this wonderful
initiative,” said Daniel Del Olmo, President, International, DineEquity,
Inc. “While we are an international brand, IHOP restaurants are very
much local businesses that care deeply about making a positive
contribution to our communities. And partnering with a great cause like
Children’s Miracle Network, where the funds raised in each community
will directly benefit the local hospital, makes the launch of National
Pancake Day in Canada even more exciting.”
Beginning February 1 through National Pancake Day on March 4,
participating IHOP locations in Canada will also sell “Miracle Balloons”
for $1 and $5 each to benefit Children’s Miracle Network member
hospitals. All icon proceeds will help provide life-saving care,
equipment and programs at member hospitals in Canada. The Miracle
Balloons, another way for guests to get involved in helping IHOP meet
its fundraising goal, will be displayed throughout the restaurants.
Customers who purchase a $5 Miracle Balloon will receive a $5 off
discount that can be used during their next dining visit.
ABOUT CHILDREN’S MIRACLE NETWORK
Children’s Miracle Network® raises funds for 170 children’s hospitals,
14 of which are in Canada. These hospitals, in turn, use the money where
it’s needed the most. When a donation is given, it stays in the
community, ensuring that every dollar is helping local kids. Established
in 1983, Children’s Miracle Network raises funds to support critical
research, education, purchase life-saving equipment, and ensure
excellence in care, all in support of our mission to save and improve
the lives of as many children as possible. Learn more at
ChildrensMiracleNetwork.ca.
ABOUT INTERNATIONAL HOUSE OF PANCAKES, LLC
For over 55 years, International House of Pancakes, LLC has been a
leader and expert in all things breakfast and a leader in family dining.
The chain is highly competitive in its menu offering, serving 65
different signature, made-to-order breakfast options as well as a range
of meals under 600 calories. Beyond offering “everything you love about
breakfast,SM” IHOP® restaurants have a wide selection of
popular lunch and dinner items, as well. IHOP restaurants offer guests
an affordable, everyday dining experience with warm and friendly
service. As of September, 2013, there were 1,602 IHOP restaurants in 50
states and the District of Columbia, as well as in Canada, Guatemala,
Mexico, Puerto Rico, the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, the Philippines
and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Under the licensed name IHOP at HOME® consumers
can also enjoy a line of premium breakfast products available at leading
retailers. IHOP restaurants are franchised and operated by Glendale,
Calif.-based International House of Pancakes, LLC and its affiliates.
International House of Pancakes, LLC is a wholly-owned subsidiary of
DineEquity, Inc. (NYSE: DIN). For more information or to find an IHOP
restaurant near you, please visit www.IHOP.com.
Follow IHOP on Facebook
and Twitter.
NOTE TO EDITORS: Pancake Day is a tradition that dates back
several centuries to when the English prepared for fasting during Lent.
Strict rules prohibited the eating of all dairy products during Lent, so
pancakes were made to use up the supply of eggs, milk, butter and other
dairy products…hence the name Pancake Tuesday, or Shrove Tuesday.
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