ORLANDO, Fla., October 7, 2010 – Just in time for the holiday season, United Way (UW) is announcing The Benefit Sale, hosted and sponsored by Walt Disney World Resort. Supporting the efforts of UW and other local nonprofit agencies, the inaugural retail event on Saturday, November 6 from 5:30 – 9:30 a.m. will feature incredible discounts of up to 50 to 75 percent off select merchandise at many of the participating Downtown Disney locations.

Access will be limited; a special voucher will be required for entry and can be purchased in advance for $5 from HFUW or from local participating nonprofit agencies. All of the proceeds from the sale of vouchers will go directly to HFUW and the 94 health and human service programs it supports through nearly 50 social services agencies throughout Orange, Osceola and Seminole counties.

“The Benefit Sale is a great way for residents to kick-start their holiday shopping while helping their friends, family and neighbors in need,” said Robert H. (Bob) Brown, HFUW President/CEO. “We all know someone who’s been tremendously impacted by today’s economy. United Way and our partner agencies are doing everything that we can to help residents who are in dire need. Your contribution by purchasing a voucher to The Benefit Sale will have a tremendous, lasting affect for so many people right here in our own community.”

In addition to helping Central Floridians in need, residents can enjoy great discounts for early birds. The sale will also feature door buster specials, surprise markdowns and more from Downtown Disney area merchandise locations.

Also, special boutiques from Epcot will be offering several unique assortments in a rare opportunity to shop from outside the park. Beauty specialists from Dior, Pucci, Acqua di Parma, Guerlain and Givenchy will be on hand with special offers on the latest cosmetics and fragrances.

A preview of many other special promotions, product launches and discounts from Walt Disney World Resort will be updated throughout October and can be viewed in advance at www.thebenefitsale.com.

On Nov. 6, only shoppers with vouchers will receive wristbands to gain access to The Benefit Sale. Wristbands will be required for admission to the Downtown Disney merchandise locations during the hours of The Benefit Sale. Vouchers and wristbands are not required for children ages 12 and under. To purchase vouchers for The Benefit Sale or for more information about Heart of Florida United Way, please visit www.hfuw.org or www.thebenefitsale.com.