• by Teresa Buyikian , 3 hours ago

P.F. Chang’s new annual giving initiative taps into the Chinese zodiac with a plushie giveaway for children during hospital stays.

The 300-unit chain has launched Spirit of the Zodiac, its new annual charity program that will focus on a different nonprofit each year, while also highlighting the year’s zodiac symbol.

The brand kicks off the program for 2026 with “Year of the Fire Horse: Spirit of Strength,” a campaign to benefit the Starlight Children's Foundation, which provides toy deliveries, hospital gowns, gaming stations and other comfort items to over 800 children’s hospitals nationwide.

This year’s promotion centers around Bao, the brand’s new limited-edition horse plushie, which is available for purchase for $10 at P.F. Chang’s locations through Sept. 30. For each plushie sold, the brand will also donate an identical Bao plushie to the Starlight Children's Foundation, which will then be distributed to children through its hospital network.

“We believe in business with a purpose and creating meaningful moments that extend beyond the restaurant,” said Jim Mazany, CEO of P.F. Chang's. “Spirit of the Zodiac gives us a new way to bring that commitment to life each year, beginning with the Year of the Fire Horse ... A symbol of strength and a gift of comfort, Bao is at the heart of this year's effort, and we're proud to partner with Starlight Children's Foundation to support children and families across the country."

A social campaign promotes the effort, such as seen here.

The brand has also tapped author Jenny Liao and illustrator Adriane Tsai to produce an original children’s book starring Bao, which focuses on “courage, kindness, comfort and hope.” The digital book is expected to be released later this month.

Customers who purchase Bao or donate $10 or more to Starlight will also receive an offer for a complimentary appetizer with the purchase of an entrée on a future dine-in visit.