Targets $5 Million Education Pledge

Target Kicks Off The "Give With Target" Education Campaign In South Street Seaport with Disney Star Bridget Mendler By Sarah Albert, for New York Family Magazine Target took over the South Street Seaport last week to launch the $5 million "Give With Target" education initiative. Despite the rain, families turned out to enjoy the carnival food and craft booths set up to help kick off the campaign. As president of Target community relations Laysha Ward commented, "Rain or shine we are focused on education!" Luckily the sun broke through right as the big announcement was made: First, a hundred in-need schools will get $25,000 grants through August that the school can put towards anything they need. This part of the campaign particularly sought out schools where at least 70 percent of the students received free or reduced lunches, to help ensure the funds are going where they're really needed. Four lucky school will also be meeting Bridgit Mendler, star of Disney's hit show Good Luck Charlie and the face of this campaign. She'll be joining Target's red bus as it travels around the country, making surprise stops and boosting excitement for school. "We want the community to know that education is fun and inspiring," explains Ward. To the delight of little Manhattanites, Mendler also made an appearance at the kickoff event today. Anyone who hung out at Target bus this morning could tell she's still a down-to-earth student, despite the millions who look up to her. It's clear she doesn't let being a star get to her head. "I honestly don't think about it that much. It's honoring to be considered a role model?I do try to make responsible choices," said Mendler. To read the full article at New York Family Magazine [click here. ](http://www.newyorkfamily.com/targets-5-million-dollar-pledge/)