The ninth annual Kids4Hope effort, a monthlong program, aims to generate $1 million this fall to support pediatric research, treatment and educational programs at City of Hope. The popular promotion involves the Southern California Food Industries Circle (SCFIC), whose participating retailers represent more than 900 store locations and include Albertsons, Bristol Farms, Food4Less, Gelson’s, Jax Markets, Northgate, Stater Bros. and Superior Grocers markets.

During October and November — with exact dates determined by each retailer — customers at each participating grocery store were encouraged to make donations in exchange for card “mobiles” or tear sheets at checkout stands. Mobiles were available in varying dollar amounts.

Additionally, the Bristol Farms location in Newport Beach will host a wine-tasting event on Dec. 9 for SCFIC guests to help raise additional dollars for the program. The effort aims to surpass the more than $800,000 that Kids4Hope raised in 2007.