WILBRAHAM – Friendly’s Ice Cream LLC recently launched its 35th annual ‘Cones for Kids’ campaign. The Valentine’s Day fundraiser will benefit 17 Easter Seals programs.

For a $1 donation, Friendly’s provides restaurant guests with five Valentine’s Day cards, redeemable for a free Friendly’s Single Cone or a coupon booklet with money saving offers on Friendly’s favorites. The campaign runs through Feb. 13.

Funds raised will support Easter Seals children’s programs that make a positive, and often life-changing difference in the lives of people with disabilities. Easter Seals is the voice and advocate for inclusion of children with disabilities so they have every opportunity in school, recreational programs, college, career preparation, and all areas of community life.  All donations benefit local programs.

Friendly’s successful ‘Cones for Kids’ campaign is an annual tradition where guests and employees across the restaurant chain help change the lives of thousands of children with disabilities through their efforts. The campaign has raised nearly $29 million to date ­– more than $300,000 in 2015 alone -- to benefit Easter Seals program locations across the region.

“Through the ‘Cones for Kids’ initiative, children in communities nationwide will benefit from the generosity of Friendly’s and their loyal guests,” Paul Medeiros, president & CEO, said.  “The donations raised by ‘Cones for Kids’ will help fund important and vital programs for children with disabilities who receive support at 17 Easter Seals’ affiliate organizations.  We are always grateful to Friendly’s for its continued support.”   

John M. Maguire, president and chief executive officer of Friendly’s added, “We are proud to partner with Easter Seals again this year. We know that contributions to Easter Seals make it possible for children with disabilities to gain access to vital services. Our guests and restaurant teams are excited to begin the 2016 campaign.”