On Oct. 15, 2015, credit unions will have an opportunity to help local kids in need simply by asking members to swipe their credit union-issued debit or credit card. Shop for Miracles Day, held annually by Credit Unions for Kids, allows participating credit unions to donate 25 cents or another pre-determined amount to their local Children's Miracle Network Hospitals each time a member swipes his or her card on Oct. 15.

Interested credit unions can visit the campaign website to register and download marketing collateral. The one-day campaign also falls on International Credit Union Day. Donations will benefit the local hospitals' greatest needs, which often include equipment, research, treatments and charitable care, Children's Miracle Network Hospitals said in a media release.   

“We're thrilled with the positive reception of this new program among our credit union partners and their members,” John Lauck, president/CEO for Children's Miracle Network Hospitals, said. “Shop for Miracles makes it possible for credit members to support kids in their community by simply planning their shopping for Oct. 15. Thanks to many generous credit unions, our member hospitals receive the funding they need to continue providing life-saving care to millions of children each year.”

Children's Miracle Network Hospitals said in 2014, 108 credit unions participated in Shop for Miracles and raised $450,000, including $50,000 in matching funds from CO-OP Financial Services' Miracle Match program.

Credit Unions for Kids is the brand name under which credit unions fundraise for Children's Miracle Network Hospitals, which raises funds and awareness for 170 member hospitals that provide 32 million treatments each year to kids across the U.S. and Canada.