By Liz Lastra, Independent Newsmedia

Phoenix Children’s Hospital Foundation launched its Make March Meaningful campaign running through the end of March, and a number of Peoria businesses are participating.

This is a way for residents to participate and give back by patronizing local businesses.
Monies collected will go to The Hope Fund — the most flexible and valuable way donors can support Phoenix Children’s Hospital. It allows the hospital officials to launch new programs, purchase equipment, conduct research and provide charitable care.

Here are businesses in Peoria that are participating in the fundraiser.

Chipotle: On March 13, all Arizona restaurant locations will donate 50 percent of orders with the mention of Phoenix Children’s Hospital.

Dairy Queen: On March 20, Dairy Queen is offering a free small sized regular soft served cone and encouraging customers to make a donation. Limit is one per person. All March, customers can also roundup their total transaction with the extra monies being donated to Phoenix Children’s Hospital.

Filiberto’s: Each location is donating $500 in addition to asking customers for donations of $1 or more at the register.

H&R Block: Every time a customer mentions Phoenix Children’s Hospital, the company will make a $20 donation.

Hungry Howie’s: March 11-April 11 is Hungry Howie’s Pizza With a Heart campaign. Heart-shaped pizzas will be made upon request on March 11. Through April 11, any customer who donates $2 will receive a free Howie Bread coupon. A $10 donation will give the customer a free large one topping pizza.

Lyft: In March, $10 for every first ride will be donated and $50 in free ride credits will be given (this will only apply to new users).

Panda Express: Canisters on the counter will be available for people to drop their change into.

Papa John’s: A portion of proceeds from their Mike Smith Smitty Special will be donated.

Kohl’s: Buy Kohl’s Cares Dr. Seuss books and stuffed animals for $5, and 100 percent of net proceeds will benefit Phoenix Children’s Hospital.

Zoyo: Donate $5 or more and receive a Phoenix Children’s Hospital bracelet and a free 16 oz coupon.

Editor’s note: Ms. Lastra, is director of PR for Evolve PR and Marketing.