DOVER — Applebee’s has launched its “Squeeze Out Childhood Cancer” fundraiser to benefit Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation (ALSF), the largest independent charity in the country dedicated to childhood cancer research and family support, marking the 22nd year of the partnership between the two organizations.
The Applebee’s location in Dover, at 435 Route 46 East, is among the restaurants nationwide taking part in the campaign, which runs through August 30. This year’s fundraiser aims to raise more than $1.5 million for pediatric cancer research and family support programs.
Through the promotion, Applebee’s will donate 50 cents from every new Lemon Berry Sunshine drink sold, whether ordered for dine-in or To Go. Restaurants nationwide, including the Dover location, will also convert into “Lemonade Stands” to raise awareness of childhood cancer.
Guests can also support the fundraiser by adding a $1, $5, $10 or $20 digital donation to an online or mobile app order, or by donating directly to ALSF when purchasing an Applebee’s gift card online.
Since the partnership began in 2005, Applebee’s says it has raised more than $20 million for ALSF, including more than $2.2 million in 2025, which the company says has helped fund more than 360,000 hours of pediatric cancer research.
“We’re honored to celebrate 22 years of partnership with Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation and to have raised more than $20 million to fund lifesaving pediatric cancer research,” said John Peyton, Applebee’s president and Dine Brands CEO. “At Applebee’s, we take Doin’ Good in the Neighborhood to heart and together with our franchisees and guests, look forward to raising more than ever this year.”
Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation traces its roots to a front-yard lemonade stand run by Alexandra “Alex” Scott, who was diagnosed with cancer as an infant and began raising money to fund research to find cures for childhood cancer. Scott died at age 8 after raising $1 million, and the foundation established in her name has since grown into the largest independent childhood cancer charity in the country.
More information on the Dover location’s hours and participation is available by visiting the restaurant at 435 Route 46 East or at Applebees.com.
