News

Carl's Jr, Hardee's launch soldier-supporting Stars for Heroes campaign

May 23, 2019

Carl's Jr. and Hardee's parent company, CKE Restaurants Inc., has launched its eighth annual Stars for Heroes in-store fundraising initiative benefiting the nation's military veterans and families. Since its inception, the fundraiser has raised over $9 million for veteran-focused organizations including USA Cares and the Stand Up and Play Foundation, as well as regional charities in Hardee's and Carl's Jr. restaurant communities, a news release said.

Now through June 18, all Hardee's and Carl's Jr. locations will invite diners to donate $1 in support of military charities and each person who consents will receive coupons and a star to display at that location announcing that they've supported the campaign. 

"Stars for Heroes is one of the most important ways we connect with customers, employees and the local communities we serve," CKE Restaurants CEO Ned Lyerly said in the release. "It's an honor for us to be able to thank those who selflessly fight for our country, and we are grateful for a team of franchisees and restaurant employees who work to bring our communities together through these efforts."

USA Cares President and CEO Hank Patton said the program has helped his organization help veterans and their families with everything from basic needs, such as food, water, and electricity, to preventing evictions and home foreclosures. 

Driven by the efforts of CKE's Star Franchise Association and Independent Hardee's Franchise Association, Stars for Heroes raised over $9 million across nearly 3,000 participating restaurants throughout the U.S. since 2011, benefiting 84 local charities in various areas in addition to USA Cares and the Stand Up and Play Foundation.