The Mercury: Philly Pretzel Factory Steps in to Give Back

For years Philly Pretzel Factory Franchisee, Mike Lanza has given generous donations to the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia.

“I don’t think people realize how many local families there are that are in need,” he said, adding that he is also involved with an organization called the “Wolf Pack,” a group of community members that holds a one-day annual event to raise money for a local family in need.

“There’s not a better feeling in the world than to help someone, especially someone who can never repay you. That feeling lasts a long time. You never know what that person is going through,” he said.

In 2005, Lanza's son passed away at the age of seven months. Lanza and his family spent those months in the hospital, while his son underwent a number of surgeries to correct the problem.

“We met families from all over the United States that go to CHOP for the care they give. It’s heartbreaking to see all the sick kids that are there. I am blessed with the business to be able to give back in that sense," said Lanza.

Recently Lanza held an event at the Philly Pretzel Factory to raffle off two Carson Wentz jerseys (quarterback for the Philadelphia Eagles), with 100 percent of the proceeds going to CHOP. Lanza said it was the first time he had done a jersey raffle, although he has raffled various sports memorabilia items in the past.

“I honestly didn’t know what to expect. I was hoping to get at least $100, but we did better than that,” he said. In the end, $285 was raised for CHOP through the raffle of one youth and one adult jersey.

In total, Lanza estimates he and his family have raised about $30,000 for CHOP over the years.