In support of World Polio Day on October 24, the South Pittsburg Rotary is rallying community involvement through the purchase and donation of Purple Pinkie Donuts. This initiative, part of a larger, multi-state fundraising effort, aims to contribute to global efforts to eradicate polio through Rotary International’s “End Polio Now” campaign.
The Purple Pinkie Donut Project is a collaboration between Dunkin’ Donuts and Rotary Districts across Tennessee, Alabama, and Mississippi. The donut fundraiser is centered around World Polio Day, and in Tennessee, donut pickups will take place on October 23 at the Dunkin’ location in Kimball.
For every $25 donation, contributors receive a dozen “Purple Pinkie” donuts, and through generous matching funds from Rotary Districts, Rotary International (RI), and the Gates Foundation, each $25 purchase ultimately results in $187.50 being donated to fight polio. The funds support Rotary’s global efforts to vaccinate children in high-risk countries. Over the past six years, the Purple Pinkie Donut Project has raised over $6 million for the End Polio Now campaign.
The name “Purple Pinkie” comes from a practice used during National Immunization Days in countries where polio remains a threat. After receiving the oral polio vaccine, children under five have their left pinkie finger marked with indelible purple ink to show they’ve been vaccinated, symbolizing protection from the disease. This simple act has become a global symbol of the fight to eliminate polio.
Rotarians and community members can get involved by pre-ordering Purple Pinkie Donuts at www.purplepinkiedonuts.org before October 4, 2024. Donors who provide their Rotary ID numbers will receive Paul Harris credit for their contributions. Many Rotary clubs distribute the donuts to local schools, hospitals, and first responders to raise awareness about polio eradication. For those who prefer not to receive donuts, direct donations can also be made to the cause, ensuring that the funds are still matched and contributing to the global fight against polio.
For any questions about the fundraiser, individuals can contact the project team at purplepinkiedonuts@gmail.com. As the community rallies together, every contribution brings the world one step closer to eradicating polio once and for all.
