Star Wars Fans Can Claim “First to Own” Rights as New Toy Star Wars AT-AT Debuts at Toy Industry Foundation Online Auction to Benefit Kids in Need
 
Two of the collector toys are available at a special eBay auction before hitting store shelves

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New York, NY | July 14, 2010 –  A charity auction launched today by the Toy Industry Foundation (TIF) provides a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for Star Wars fans to own the hottest new collector’s item – the Star Wars AT-AT (All Terrain Armored Transport) – before it hits toy store shelves next month.   Proceeds of the auction will benefit TIF programs that provide much-needed support to charities supporting children at-risk, abused, abandoned, ill or otherwise in need.

The auction began at noon (EST) today and features two of the new Star Wars AT-AT vehicles – a “must-have” in the collection of every die-hard fan Star Wars fan!  The auction will close at noon (EST) on Monday, July 19, giving the auction’s highest bidders nearly two weeks of “exclusive” ownership rights before the product becomes available at retail; delivery to the auction winner via express shipping will be provided by the TIF upon receipt of payment via PayPal.  

Generously donated by Hasbro, a leading toymaker and Star Wars master toy licensor, this colossal multi-level vehicle stands two feet tall, 28 inches long and 12 inches wide.  Holding up to 20 Star Wars figures, the AT-AT is loaded with play and electronic features … including a driver action figure and pop-out speeder bike, “chin guns” and a zip-line in its body to recreate the classic Luke Skywalker scene from Episode V.   

“The Toy Industry Foundation is very grateful to Hasbro for the donation of these fantastic collectibles,” said Jean Butler, TIF Executive Director.  “Just as every Star Wars collector will be excited to get his or her hands on this incredible toy, proceeds from the auction support the Foundation’s efforts to make play possible for deserving kids around the world.”

The auction is the latest in a series of initiatives to promote individual giving in support of the Foundation’s philanthropic activities.  The second annual “TIF Birthday Bids” auction celebrating the anniversaries of beloved characters and toys will kick off in September 2010.  


About the Toy Industry Foundation                (www.toyindustryfoundation.org)

The Toy Industry Foundation is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to bring joy, comfort, and learning to children in need through toys and play. While other organizations provide food, shelter and support services to children and their families, TIF sees to it that these children have toys and opportunities to play in an attempt to restore both fun and a sense of normalcy to their lives. The Foundation currently fulfills its mission through core programs including The Toy Bank™, public education initiatives, and grants to organizations whose missions are in line with that of the Toy Industry Foundation.