Walgreens' Partnership with Red Nose Day Campaign Raises Millions

A big red nose is typically associated with clowns, but it has recently become a symbol of charity.

Walgreens and the Red Nose Day campaign partnered to bring smiles and financial support to children living in poverty. As of May 18, 2015, the chain pharmacy giant had garnered $7 million in donations—$2 million more than its original goal.

“We’re absolutely thrilled to have exceeded our fundraising goal, but the real recognition is owed to our customers and team members who embraced the spirit of this cause and joined us for a good laugh along the way,” stated Walgreens president Alex Gourlay.

Last night, a 3-hour televised fundraising event on NBC raised another $10 million. The star-studded event brought together musicians like John Legend and Ed Sheeran, actors like Nick Offerman and Anna Kendrick, and comedians like Will Ferrell and Jay Pharoah.

One of the highlights from the telethon involved Coldplay’s front man Chris Martin developing a musical for the “Game of Thrones” cast. At one point during the skit, Kit Harington’s character Jon Snow serenaded Ygritte, played by Rose Leslie, with a rendition of “Wild Things” replaced with “Wildlings” vernacular.

The live event in New York City used entertainment to inspire viewers to contribute to the campaign, which distributes funds to several charity partners, including the Boys and Girls Clubs of America, Charity: Water, and Save the Children.

Throughout the campaign, Walgreens encouraged viewers to use #RedNose on social media platforms. Additionally, purchases of certain products at Walgreens, such as Vitaminwater, Maxwell House Coffee, and M&Ms, included a donation to the campaign.

“Our incredible partnership with the Red Nose Day campaign is one more way that Walgreens can continue to fulfill its purpose—to champion everyone’s right to be happy and healthy,” Gourlay said in a press release.