As it brings back Red Nose Day for its seventh year, Walgreens once again is putting a digital spin on the iconic Red Nose. Through May 31, customers who make a donation at Walgreens.com/RedNoseDay will unlock a special digital Red Nose filter for sharing on social media. Donations also can be made in-store or via the Walgreens app.
“At Walgreens, we are committed to making a life-changing difference for children in need, which is why we continue to support Red Nose Day year after year,” said Patrick McLean, chief marketing officer of Walgreens. “The Digital Red Nose represents the innovative and safe way people have chosen to connect during the COVID-19 pandemic, and reminds us of the optimism and importance of improving the lives of the next generation.”
The company noted that child poverty rose to 21.4% in 2020, and the ripple effects of the pandemic are driving higher rates of hunger and homelessness, as well as a learning gap, among children in the United States. This year, Walgreens said Red Nose Day funds raised will be used by its grantee partners to help address the impact of COVID-19 on underserved children in the country.
“The dire effects of the pandemic have disproportionately impacted children who are living in poverty. As so many families face a long road to recovery, the donations of millions of generous supporters and customers will be more important than ever, funding truly critical programs," said Alison Moore, CEO of Comic Relief US, the nonprofit organization behind Red Nose Day. “We are thrilled to have the Digital Red Nose back this year, giving supporters an engaging way to turn hope into action, and for Walgreens’s continued partnership in bringing this to life.”
Since it began, Red Nose Day has raised $240 million. Walgreens’ grantee partners for this year include the Boys & Girls Clubs of America, Children’s Health Fund, Covenant House, Start Early, Feeding America, International Rescue. Committee, Brotherhood SisterSol, Amref and others.