[03.11.2008] PRESS RELEASES
Between 3rd November and 24th December 2008, IKEA stores will donate 1 euro for every soft toy sold to UNICEF and Save the Children education projects in 14 countries.

Since 2003, Soft Toy activities have raised a total of 11 million euros for children in need. The goal this year is to raise another five million euros.

A total of 16 projects – both new and ongoing – in 14 countries will benefit from this year’s campaign. These UNICEF and Save the Children projects aim to improve children’s education. The funds raised during the 2008 Soft Toy Campaign will support efforts including improving school facilities and access to water and sanitation, strengthening the right to education for disabled children, and providing educational supplies like books, pencils and writing pads for children and teachers.  

“The ‘1euro is a fortune’ IKEA Soft Toy Campaign is an opportunity for both IKEA customers and co-workers to get involved in working for children in the run-up to the holiday season. We hope to sell as many as five million soft toys, and the money raised from one soft toy alone is enough to buy books and pencils for five children. Together we can bring countless smiles on the faces of many, many children eager to learn and thrive,” says Marianne Barner, head of IKEA Social Initiative.

IKEA’s strategic partnerships with UNICEF and Save the Children’s Fund contribute to achieving the UN Millennium Development Goals. Equal access to education for all girls and boys and quality education in a child-friendly environment is the foundation. By ensuring all children access to education, it becomes possible to build the knowledge necessary to combat disease and eradicate poverty and hunger.

"IKEA's innovative partnership with UNICEF is an important contribution to ensuring access to quality education for all children. Opportunities to go to school will empower girls and boys in developing countries to build better lives and realise their dreams," says Philip O'Brien, Director of UNICEF's Private Fundraising & Partnerships Division.


In the Social Initiative programme are committed all IKEA countries and cooperate with the organisation present on each market. In Poland IKEA continues the strategic partnership with UNICEF.  The 2008 action from seven polish stores will benefit eight UNICEF projects (in Macedonia, Moldova, Sierra Leone, South Africa, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan and Vietnam)

More information:
Aleksandra Sikora
Biuro prasowe IKEA
Tel. +48 22 711 22 16