IKEA launches Soft Toy campaign for children’s rights to a better life

IKEA UAE today announced it will donate 1 Euro (AED 5 approx) for every soft toy sold in IKEA Dubai and IKEA Abu Dhabi store between November 1st and December 24th 2011 to help support UNICEF's education programme, an initiative which is one of the largest cause-related campaigns in the world.

Customers can participate in the Soft Toy Campaign at IKEA Dubai Festival City and Abu Dhabi Yas Island stores.

IKEA believes children are the most important people in the world and every year during holiday shopping time, IKEA reaches out to its customers all around the world through this campaign to provide joy to children and make a life-changing impact on their lives.

"IKEA Soft Toy Campaign is an opportunity for both IKEA customers and co-workers in the UAE to get involved in working for children's rights to a great future. IKEA is proud to be a part of this wonderful global campaign which helps children get access to quality life," said Mile Franicevic, General Manager, IKEA UAE.

"Every child should be given the opportunity to have a good education and a better life. It's their future. Our future. It's a child's right. I believe our partnership with UNICEF contributes to a better world and creates a better everyday life for the many people. Together with our UAE customers, this campaign will bring countless smiles on the faces of so many children eager to learn and thrive," Mr. Franicevic said.

The funds raised during IKEA's Soft Toy Campaign will support global efforts including improving school facilities and access to water and toilets, and providing school benches, desks and educational supplies like books, pencils and writing pads for children and teachers.

IKEA Soft Toy campaign has raised a total of 23.8 million euros since 2003 helping eight million children. The goal in 2011 is to raise another 10 million euros.

IKEA remains the largest global corporate donor to UNICEF with donations exceeding $180 million dollars.