Kohl's Department Stores, through the Kohl's Cares cause merchandise program, has donated $33,204 to the SGMC Foundation. The donations were collected from Kohl’s stores located in the Valdosta area. Kohl’s has gifted more than $208,000 to SGMC’s Foundation since 2007.

“Kohl’s has been a dedicated supporter of children’s hospitals and children’s health across the country. We are very fortunate to have such a great partner here in Valdosta,” said Elizabeth Vickers, South Georgia Medical Center’s foundation director.

Through the Kohl’s/SGMC Foundation partnership, a program called Connecting Kids addresses children’s health and wellness issues. This year, Connecting Kids will promote health and wellness by supporting the Boys and Girls Club Triple Play program. Kohl’s Cares funding will be distributed to this community organization for the purchase of equipment and materials for the Triple Play after school program. The donation announcement event with a demonstration of Triple Play program activities was held on Tuesday, Dec. 3 at the Boys and Girls Club at 614 N. Toombs St., Valdosta.

Additional programs funded by the Kohl’s Cares grant in 2014 include the Bike Smart bike safety rodeo planned for April 26 and a Kids Safety media campaign during the summer months. The grant also provides for the continuation of the website www.sgmcandkohls.com, which provides health and wellness information to children and parents.

Kohl's commitment to SGMC Foundation is made possible through the Kohl's Cares cause merchandise program. Through this initiative, Kohl’s sells $5 books and plush toys, with 100 percent of net profit benefiting children’s health and education programs nationwide, including hospital partnerships like this one. Kohl's has raised more than $231 million through this merchandise program. In addition to the merchandise program, Kohl's Cares features the Kohl's Cares Scholarship Program, which last year recognized more than 2,300 young volunteers with more than $400,000 in scholarships and prizes. For more information, visit www.Kohls.com/Cares.