Lowe’s stores and customers nationwide rallied together this spring to raise more than $7.5 million during the Muscular Dystrophy Association's annual Shamrock program, reaching the $50 million mark in overall funds raised since first teaming up with MDA in 2001 to help improve the lives of people fighting muscle disease.

“Each year, our employees and customers open their hearts to help people in their communities through the simple act of selling or purchasing an MDA shamrock,” said Joan Higginbotham, Lowe’s director of community relations. “We thank everyone for their support in helping provide thousands of children across the country with the opportunity to experience ‘the best week of the year’ at MDA summer camp.”

From Feb. 6 to March 30, nearly 1,800 Lowe’s stores participated in the nation’s largest St. Patrick’s Day fundraiser. Customers bought MDA shamrocks at checkout, and many of the stores creatively displayed the purchased shamrocks on their walls.

“Once again Lowe's employees and customers have gone above and beyond to raise critical funds that will help bring strength and urgently needed progress for kids and adults whose abilities to move are compromised — including everyday abilities like walking, running, hugging, talking and even breathing,” said MDA President and CEO Steven M. Derks. “With steadfast support from Lowe's, we are able to provide kids with muscular dystrophy life-changing experiences at MDA summer camp, offering children and their families a chance to build confidence and independence, and carry the skills and experience well into adulthood.”

In addition to raising funds through MDA's annual Shamrock program, Lowe's employees often volunteer at MDA summer camps nationwide, helping kids develop lifelong friendships, build self-confidence and enjoy a week that's free of barriers.