Habitat for Humanity and jcpenney invite shoppers to donate at checkout throughout month of May

jcp cares supporters will be able to round up purchases at jcp.com

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May 01, 2013, 09:00 ET

ATLANTA, May 1, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Habitat for Humanity is partnering with jcpenney in the retailer's charitable giving program, jcp cares. jcpenney customers can round up their purchases in May to the nearest whole dollar and donate the difference to support Habitat's affordable housing work in partnership with low-income families.

(Logo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20050501/NYSU020LOGO)

World-renowned architect and designer Michael Graves, who recently launched Michael Graves Design at jcpenney, will be joining the company in its support of Habitat for Humanity. Graves, a long-standing advocate for the disabled, and his architecture practice Michael Graves & Associates, have designed a Habitat for Humanity house that focuses on accessibility and universal design. Habitat for Humanity may use the new design to build homes in partnership with low-income families who require an accessible house.

"We are so grateful to jcpenney for joining us in our efforts to provide affordable housing opportunities," said Jonathan Reckford, CEO of Habitat for Humanity International. "Inviting customers to round up their purchases and donate the difference to Habitat will not only raise funds, but will also engage new and faithful supporters, reminding them of the crucial role housing plays in the lives of families and entire communities."

"We're thrilled to support Habitat for Humanity in May, and we're equally delighted that Michael Graves is lending his support to this great cause," said Miki Woodard, president of jcp cares and vice president of philanthropy at jcpenney. "Today, 1.6 billion people live in substandard housing*. By rounding up their purchases, jcpenney shoppers will have a personal hand in helping Habitat create affordable housing in partnership with low-income families."

Through volunteer labor and donations of money and materials, Habitat builds and renovates simple, decent houses with the help of homeowner families. Habitat houses are sold to partner families at no profit, financed with affordable mortgages.

To support the partnership with Habitat, jcpenney customers can round-up their purchases both in-store and online at jcp.com. Additionally, customers can make donations to Habitat for Humanity at jcp.com/jcpcares and support the organization through the Facebook social game, WeTopia.

About Habitat for Humanity International
Habitat for Humanity International is a global nonprofit Christian housing organization that seeks to put God's love into action by bringing people together to build homes, communities and hope. Since 1976, Habitat has served more than 600,000 families by welcoming people of all races, religions and nationalities to construct, rehabilitate or preserve homes; by advocating for fair and just housing policies; and by providing training and access to resources to help families improve their shelter conditions. For more information, to donate or to volunteer, please visit www.habitat.org, or follow us at www.facebook.com/habitat or at www.twitter.com/habitat_org or join Habitat's blog community at www.habitat.org/blog.

About jcpenney
More than a century ago, James Cash Penney founded his company on the principle of the Golden Rule: treat others the way you'd like to be treated – Fair and Square. His legacy continues to this day, as J. C. Penney Company, Inc. (NYSE: JCP) boldly transforms the retail experience across 1,100 stores and jcp.com to become America's favorite store. Focused on making the customer experience better every day, jcpenney is dreaming up new ways to make customers love shopping again. On every visit, customers will discover great prices every day in a unique Shops environment that features exceptionally curated merchandise, a dynamic presentation and unmatched customer service. For more information, visit us at jcp.com.

About Michael Graves & Associates
Michael Graves & Associates has been in the forefront of architecture and design for almost 50 years. Today, the overall architecture and design practice comprises two firms run by 8 Principals. Michael Graves Design Group (MGDG) specializes in product design, graphics and branding and Michael Graves & Associates (MGA) provides planning, architecture and interior design services. MGDG has designed and brought to market over 2,000 products for clients such as Stryker, JCPenney, Target, Alessi, and Disney. MGA has designed many master plans and the architecture and interiors of over 400 buildings worldwide, including hotels and resorts, civic and cultural projects, office buildings, healthcare facilities, residences and a wide variety of academic facilities. Graves and the firms have received over 200 awards for design excellence. With its unique, highly integrated multidisciplinary practice, the Michael Graves Companies offer strategic advantages to clients worldwide. Please visit www.michaelgraves.com.

*According to data from Bureau of Labor Statistics.

SOURCE Habitat for Humanity International