HTC and T-Mobile US have both today announced a partnership to provide children with life threatening illnesses and their families the opportunity to visit the Give Kids The World Village (givekidstheworld.org) and spend some time at the nonprofit "storybook" resort. Starting this Friday (November 23rd) through December 31st, those who purchase a HTC 8X from a T-Mobile authorised retailer will have the option to donate $1 of their purchase to Give The Kids World.
This is to help the donation pool to grow up to $75,000 and unlock the potential to provide an invaluable opportunity for a multitude of families. It's fitting that a Windows Phone 8 handset is used in this promotion for the charity as it sports Kid's Corner - a unique feature that enables parents to control exactly what their children have access to on the mobile device.
If you've always been one to look at certain charities, but never find the moment to make a donation, now's your chance with a HTC 8X purchase. Buying the Windows Phone online or in-store will enable customers to make their purchases count towards the wish-giving goal. Those who choose to opt-in and participate will be able to track the growing pool online and via their new Windows Phone at HTC's website (gift.htc.com). The manufacturer will also update its Facebook page with donation goal announcements.
Mike Woodward, president of HTC North America, had the following to comment on the partnership announcement:
"The holidays are about generosity; we celebrate by giving gifts to our family, our friends and extending our generosities to help people in need. There is no better way to share the holiday spirit than by helping to fulfill the wishes of children with life-threatening illnesses. Customers who purchase a Windows Phone 8X by HTC will help Give Kids The World to raise needed funds, showing the families supported by the organization that they care."
Andrew Morrison, vice president, product management at T-Mobile US, also praised the cause the partnership is supporting through purchases of the HTC 8X Windows Phone.
"This holiday season, T-Mobile is bringing amazing 4G experiences to customers with the introduction of the new Windows Phone 8X by HTC; by working with HTC to support Give Kids the World, we’re also empowering our customers to help families around the world. As the exclusive retail partner, we are proud to support this great cause and campaign in all of our 3,000 locations nationwide."
Give Kids The World partners with more than 250 organisations around the world to help fulfill wishes of children affected by illnesses to visit theme parks of Central Florida. Children (as well as family members) are invited for a free weeklong stay at the 70-acre village. The vacation includes accommodation in whismical villas, entry to nearby theme parks, meals, entertainment and transportation.
The charity has welcomed more than 118,000 children from all 50 states and more than 70 countries worldwide. Pamela Landwirth, president of Give Kids The World, had the following to add to the announcement:
"We would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to HTC, T-Mobile and all of their wonderful customers whose donations will allow us to continue our mission of providing a week of unforgettable happiness that inspires hope for children in the fight of their lives."
The HTC 8X is available from T-Mobile (with its Class Plan) for $199.99 after a $50 MIR (mail-in-rebate card). The device is also available for qualified customers with the Value Plan for $149.99 after a MIR, as well as the Equipment Instalment Plan.
