CARY, N.C. -- The Pantry Inc.'s Florida Kangaroo Express stores are inviting customers to donate to non-profit organization Give Kids The World Village (GKTW), the company announced. The "storybook" village, located near multiple popular central Florida theme parks, hosts children suffering from life-threatening illnesses, along with their families, as they enjoy free weeklong vacations.

"Give Kids The World is a compassionate and dedicated non-profit that helps share the magic found here in our backyard of Central Florida with kids from all over the world," said Paul Moody, division vice president at Kangaroo Express. "We are honored to do our part in helping fulfill the wishes of these inspiring children and their families."

Kangaroo Express customers can donate at nearly 400 Florida locations by purchasing $1 or $5 pin-ups to hang in the store or by donating their change. Donations will be accepted through Nov. 4.

"We want to extend a heartfelt thank you to Kangaroo Express all the great people of Florida who purchase a pin up to help raise money for our organization," said GKTW President Pam Landwirth. "Their donation will help Give Kids The World continue its mission to provide the happiness that inspires hope for children battling a life-threatening illness."

Recently, Kangaroo Express drew accolades by winning Convenience Store News' Grand Spirit Award for Community Outreach in the 500-plus stores category for its "Salute Our Troops" fundraising campaign and other work. In-depth coverage of the Spirit Award winners will appear in the Nov. 7th issue of Convenience Store News.