AUSTIN, Texas (Jan. 25, 2012) – Whole Foods Market® and Universal Pictures are partnering to give kids with a passion for the planet the (green) thumbs up with a chance to win a private hometown screening of the 3D-CG animated adventure Dr. Seuss’ The Lorax, which opens in theaters nationwide March 2, 2012.

Parents or teachers can enter a child or group of kids who are actively making a difference by caring for the environment in the Kids for Our Planet online Facebook contest for a chance to win a free private screening of Dr. Seuss’ The Lorax in a local theater the day before the film is officially released nationwide.

Whether it’s saving Truffula Trees and Brown Bar-ba-loots, or protecting the planet locally, the Kids for Our Planet contest celebrates kids who are doing more than their fair share to protect the planet. To enter a hero, visit the company’s Facebook page, at www.facebook.com/wholefoods and click the Kids for our Planet tab to submit a written entry of between 50 and 350 words describing the efforts of a child or group of children who are making a positive impact on the environment.

“One of the great things about the Lorax is that his powerful message still resonates and inspires young people today,” said Mara Fleishman, global partnership coordinator for Whole Foods Market. “Whole Foods Market has a long history of supporting our environment — from ensuring responsible business practices like recycling, composting and supporting organic agriculture to offering the widest variety of organic options possible for our shoppers to enjoy. We are really excited to partner with Universal Pictures to celebrate real kids who are doing more than their part to protect the planet.” 

Submissions will be accepted online from Jan. 25 – Feb. 8.  All Kids for Our Planet entries will be judged on creativity and the impact of their quest to make a difference for the Earth. To be eligible for entry, nominees must be between the ages of five and 14 and live in the U.S.; and teachers and parents nominating must be at least 18-years-old (see Facebook page for full list of contest rules). Winners will be announced on Feb. 15. 

In addition to the Kids for Our Planet contest, participating Whole Foods Market stores will be running promotions coinciding with the movie launch, including ticket giveaways.