Signet Jewelers has reached a new fundraising record with $8.75 million raised for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
This amount is the highest the company has raised in a single year, contributing towards its ongoing support for the hospital’s mission against childhood cancer and other serious diseases.
“I’m so proud of our team members and thankful for our customers for enabling us to make another record-breaking contribution as we hit the ground running to tackle our commitment of raising another $100 million for St. Jude,” stated Virginia C. Drosos, CEO of Signet Jewelers. “Guided by our purpose of Inspiring Love, we will continue to fight for a world in which no child dies in the dawn of life.”
Historical Context and Ongoing Commitment
Signet has supported St. Jude for over 25 years, during which it and its customers have raised more than $100 million. In a commitment made last October, Signet pledged to raise an additional $100 million. This ongoing partnership highlights the company’s commitment to corporate social responsibility and its role in supporting medical research and patient care at St. Jude.
The $8.75 million raised by Signet came from several initiatives. Sales of plush puppies and bears at their stores were a significant source, along with donations collected at registers and online. Additionally, the company’s North American team members, who number over 26,000, contributed by participating in fundraising activities, notably the St. Jude Memphis Marathon Weekend, the hospital’s largest single-day fundraising event.
These funds are essential in supporting the hospital’s research and treatment programs. Since its founding in 1962, St. Jude has significantly increased the survival rate for childhood cancer from 20% to over 80%. Contributions from organisations like Signet are crucial in striving to further increase these survival rates.
Supporting Survivorship and Future Research
Funds from Signet’s recent efforts will also benefit programs like the After Completion of Therapy Clinic and the St. Jude LIFE Study Program. These programs aim to improve the quality of life for children after treatment and to advance research that improves global survivorship outcomes. The St. Jude LIFE Study is particularly significant, aiming to enhance the long-term wellbeing of cancer survivors.
“We are deeply grateful for the incredible support from our longtime friends at Signet, who are not only helping save lives today but providing a lifetime of possibilities for generations to come,” said Richard C. Shadyac Jr., President and CEO of ALSAC, the fundraising and awareness organization for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. “Signet’s commitment to bringing hope and healing to children and families faced with cancer and other life- threatening diseases is so inspiring. We are so excited about what we can achieve together to help children across the globe survive and thrive.”
Implications for the Jewelry Industry
For professional jewellers and industry stakeholders, Signet’s recent achievement highlights the potential impact of integrated CSR strategies. It demonstrates how charitable activities can support brand reputation and enhance customer engagement.
