Kangaroo Express Raises Over $233K in 30 Days to ‘Give Kids The World’

Funds will help fulfill the wishes of children with life-threatening illnesses

Cary, N.C., Nov. 17, 2011 – The Pantry, Inc. (Nasdaq: PTRY), the leading independently operated convenience store chain in the southeastern United States, today announced that its Florida Kangaroo Express locations have raised more than $233,000 for Give Kids The World Village (GKTW), a 70-acre, non-profit “storybook” village in Central Florida that provides cost-free, weeklong vacations for children with life-threatening illnesses and their families.

"Give Kids The World is a compassionate and dedicated non-profit that helps share the magic found here in our backyard of Central Florida with kids from all over the world," said Paul Moody, division vice president at Kangaroo Express. "We are honored to do our part in helping fulfill the wishes of these inspiring children and their families."

Through Nov. 9, guests could donate to GKTW at any of the almost 400 Florida Kangaroo Express convenience stores by purchasing a $1 or $5 pin up to hang in the store, or by donating their change at the register.

"We want to extend a heartfelt thank you to Kangaroo Express and all the great people of Florida that helped raise over $233,000 for our organization in just 30 days," said GKTW President Pam Landwirth. "Their donation will help Give Kids The World continue its mission to provide the happiness that inspires hope for children battling a life-threatening illness."

Every year, GKTW fulfills the wishes of more than 7,000 children with life-threatening illnesses from around the world whose one desire is to visit the theme parks of Central Florida. While staying at the whimsical GKTW 'Village', these children and their families learn that dreams really do come true as they are immersed in joy, hope and nonstop fun for a few unforgettably happy days.
To find a Kangaroo Express in your neighborhood, visit www.kangarooexpress.com.

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About The Pantry and Kangaroo Express
Headquartered in Cary, North Carolina, The Pantry, Inc. is the leading independently operated convenience store chain in the southeastern United States and one of the largest independently operated convenience store chains in the country. As of August 8, 2011, the Company operated 1,655 stores in thirteen states under select banners, including Kangaroo Express®, its primary operating banner. The Pantry's stores offer a broad selection of merchandise, as well as gasoline and other ancillary services designed to appeal to the convenience needs of its customers.

About Give Kids The World:
Give Kids The World Village (GKTW) is a 70-acre, non-profit resort in Central Florida that creates magical memories for children with life-threatening illnesses and their families. GKTW provides accommodations at its whimsical resort, donated attractions tickets, meals and more for a weeklong, cost-free fantasy vacation. With the help of many generous individuals, corporations and partnering wish-granting organizations, Give Kids The World has welcomed more than 110,000 families from all 50 states and more than 70 countries. For more information about GKTW and its mission, visit givekidstheworld.org.

Sarah Haas
Largemouth Communications (on behalf of Kangaroo Express)
1007 Slater Dr., Suite 150
Durham, NC 27703
sarah@largemouthpr.com
(919) 459-6457

This release was published on openPR.