White Castle to “Light It Up Blue” for 10th Annual Fundraiser

White Castle, America’s favorite family-owned hamburger chain for 97 years, announced today the launch of its annual fundraiser for Autism Speaks as part of its philanthropic Castle Shares initiative. This year’s fundraiser will mark one decade of partnership between White Castle and Autism Speaks, a global organization dedicated to promoting solutions, across the spectrum and throughout the life span, for people with autism and their families.

In support of World Autism Month in April, White Castle will collect donations on behalf of Autism Speaks through the sales of $1, $3 and $5 puzzle pieces, in keeping with the organization’s iconic blue puzzle-piece logo. Donations will be accepted from April 2 to May 12 and donors can display their support by donning a puzzle piece temporary tattoo, distributed to participants at each restaurant while supplies last. Cravers are encouraged to spread the word by sharing a picture of the puzzle piece tattoos on social media with the hashtags #AutismSpeaks and #CastleShares.

“We’re extremely proud to have partnered with Autism Speaks for a decade to raise awareness and much needed donations during World Autism Month,” said Erin Shannon, corporate relations manager at White Castle and member of the fourth generation of White Castle leadership. “Our family, and the families of many of our team members, have a personal connection to autism. Our commitment to show support for those who have been impacted is a large part of who we are as a company.“

In addition to the sale of puzzle pieces in White Castle restaurants, customers can support the cause from home through online or mobile app ordering. For every Crave Case ordered online or through the mobile app, $3 of the proceeds will be donated to Autism Speaks. White Castle will also promote the fundraiser with inserts included with retail products in grocery, club stores and convenience stores encouraging Cravers across the country to participate.

Beginning May 15 for National Slider Day, White Castle will be selling Original Slider scented candles in stores and online, with proceeds going to Autism Speaks. The slider box-shaped candles make for an unforgettable gift that’s guaranteed to warm the heart and keep Cravebuds active.

Autism Speaks® and White Castle® have partnered together to “Light It Up Blue” for 10 years, raising over $6.6 million. Last year, White Castle Cravers and team members raised more than $880,000 for Autism Speaks by selling puzzle pieces throughout the five-week campaign. This year the family-owned business is aiming high and hoping to surpass $900,000 in contributions.

“We are so thankful to the White Castle team and their customers for their commitment to this campaign, year after year,” said Lisa Goring, Autism Speaks chief program and marketing officer. “Their generous donations make a difference in people’s daily lives right now, while helping us pave the way for research breakthroughs in the future.”