When my uncle, Wes Foster, started this company nearly 50 years ago, he made a commitment to give back to the communities we serve, and a big part of that pledge included supporting nonprofits and charitable organizations, as well as other local businesses.

Following on that commitment, I am thrilled that Long & Foster is again sponsoring the Care for Kids shopping fundraiser to benefit Children’s National Health System. Care for Kids is one of the most popular charity fundraisers in the metro D.C. area, and our agents are actively involved in the program, from chairing the event itself to buying and selling Care for Kids passes.

Here’s how it works

By purchasing a $50 Care for Kids shopping pass, you’ll enjoy a 20 percent discount at participating Care for Kids merchants during the Oct. 21 to 30 shopping days. One hundred percent of the proceeds from shopping pass sales go to Children’s National Health System, a premier hospital that’s served our nation’s kids for over 140 years.

This year, over 150 shops and restaurants are participating in Care for Kids, including Lebanese Taverna, Bloomingdale’s, The Container Store, Pottery Barn, Versace and Williams Sonoma, among many others. You can see the whole list here.

How to get your Care for Kids shopping pass

New this year, you can purchase your shopping pass on the Care for Kids app, which can be downloaded onto your Apple or Android phone and shown to retailers as you shop to get your discounts. You can also buy your shopping pass online at the Board of Visitors website and many participating retailers.

I, for one, am definitely getting a shopping pass this year and I hope you’ll join me in participating in this fun and worthwhile event!