Belk has announced its Spring Charity Sale on May 2. The four-hour event will benefit local charities, schools and nonprofit organizations throughout the company's 16-state market area.

Belk's previous Charity Sale last Nov. 15 raised more than $4.5 million for hundreds of participating nonprofits.

In return for a $5 donation, customers receive a ticket admitting them to the Charity Sale from 6 to 10 a.m., entitling them to merchandise discounts ranging from 20 to 50 percent on items throughout the store. Customers also receive $5 off their first purchase of $5 or more at the event. Belk cardholders will receive double points for card purchases.

Participating local charities will sell the Charity Sale tickets in advance of the event. Proceeds from each ticket will be retained by the charity.

Beginning April 24, tickets also may be purchased at the store, with all donations divided among participating charities and schools. There is no limit to the number of tickets charities can sell, and no limit to the amount of money that can be raised.

Belk provides tickets and collateral material at no cost to the participating organizations.

Information for participating charities is available from Linda Millar at 770-532-7021 extension 208 or e-mail linda_millar@belk.com.