Applebee’s restaurants launch 28th annual Toys for Tots campaign, aim to reach $6 million in donations
NEW JERSEY — Doherty Enterprises-owned Applebee’s restaurants in New Jersey and New York have launched their 28th annual Toys for Tots campaign, with a goal of raising $250,000 to bring the company’s lifetime contributions to the charitable program to $6 million.
The fundraising campaign, which began Monday, Nov. 2, will continue through Jan. 3, 2027, at participating Applebee’s locations in New Jersey and Long Island.
Doherty Enterprises, a major Applebee’s franchisee operating restaurants in New Jersey, New York City and Long Island, has partnered with the Marine Corps Reserve’s Toys for Tots program since 1998.
The company said guests can contribute to the campaign by purchasing paper gift packs, rounding up their restaurant checks or making donations in any amount.
In addition, 25 cents from every Mucho Long Beach Tea sold at participating Doherty-owned Applebee’s restaurants in New Jersey, New York City, Westchester County and Long Island will be donated to Toys for Tots. Customers must be 21 or older to purchase alcoholic beverages.
“We’re proud to continue our partnership with Toys for Tots® for the 28th consecutive year and help make the holiday season brighter for children in our local communities,” said Timothy Doherty, President and COO of Doherty Enterprises. “Reaching $6 million in lifetime contributions would be an incredible milestone, made possible by the generosity of our guests and the dedication of our team members. We’re grateful for their continued support and commitment to making a meaningful difference for local families year after year.”
As an incentive to encourage donations, guests who contribute $10 or more during their visit will receive a coupon for a complimentary appetizer on a future visit.
The offer is valid for dine-in customers at participating locations during the campaign period, with a limit of one coupon per party or guest per visit. The coupon cannot be combined with other discounts or offers, and additional restrictions may apply.
Breakfast with Santa events scheduled for Dec. 5
As part of the holiday fundraising effort, select Doherty-owned Applebee’s restaurants throughout New Jersey and Long Island will host Breakfast with Santa events Saturday, Dec. 5.
Families attending the events will have an opportunity to enjoy breakfast, take photographs with Santa Claus and participate in holiday activities, raffles and giveaways while supporting Toys for Tots.
The company did not specify which restaurant locations would host the events in its announcement.
Proceeds from the fundraising activities will benefit the Marine Corps Reserve’s Toys for Tots program, which provides holiday gifts to children in need.
Doherty Enterprises said the annual campaign is part of its longstanding commitment to supporting families and charitable organizations in the communities where its restaurants operate.
For more information about Doherty Enterprises and its community initiatives, visit www.dohertyinc.com.
