BETHESDA, Md., Jan. 15, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- It may be cold outside this time of year, but TownePlace Suites by Marriott is spreading warmth and comfort to those who need it most - patients at Children's Miracle Network Hospitals. This season, TownePlace Suites service team members, owners, franchisees and guests devoted time and effort to make and donate thousands of warm, fleece blankets to local hospitals across the United States and Canada.

This annual blanket-making program, now in its fourth year, is part of TownePlace Suites' real giving(TM) program. In line with the brand's connection to local communities across North America, TownePlace Suites teams raised money for cozy materials, organized blanket-making events and made in-person deliveries to sick children in need of a little extra comfort.

"This annual tradition truly warms my heart," said Loren Nalewanski, vice president and global brand manager, TownePlace Suites. "We take care of our road warrior guests every day, providing them with care and comfort while they are on the road. Our real giving(TM) program allows us to extend that hospitality across the United States and Canada to kids in need of a little TLC."

Through blanket-making volunteer service and donation opportunities, TownePlace Suites teams worked with local businesses and established long-lasting partnerships with area hospitals. At Marriott International headquarters in Bethesda, Maryland, associates donated their batch of handmade blankets to Children's National Medical Center.

The spirit of giving and connecting with the local community is an important element to the TownePlace Suites brand. The annual tradition of making and delivering blankets is just one way in which TownePlace Suites hotel teams work with their local communities to give back.

TownePlace Suites by Marriott is an all-suite, extended-stay hotel brand in the moderate price range. Ranked #1 for mid-price extended stays by Business Travel News' Hotel Chain Survey in 2011 and 2012, TownePlace Suites is the only brand to rank at the top of its tier for both years. Ideal for travelers who need accommodations for longer stays, TownePlace Suites offer studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom suites with fully equipped kitchens and separate living/working and sleeping areas. Launched in 1997, the brand currently has more than 200 locations in the United States and Canada. TownePlace Suites participates in the award-winning Marriott Rewards(®) frequent travel program that allows members to earn hotel points or airline miles for every dollar spent during each stay. For more information or reservations, call the TownePlace Suites toll-free number at 800-257-3000 or visit www.towneplacesuites.com.

Visit Marriott International, Inc. (NYSE: MAR) for company information. For more information or reservations, please visit our website at www.marriott.com, and for the latest company news, visit www.marriottnewscenter.com.

Marriott International is celebrating its 30(th) anniversary with Children's Miracle Network Hospitals this year. Since Mr. Marriott signed on as the first sponsor in 1983, Marriott International has raised nearly $70 million for the 170 Children's Hospitals across the United States and Canada.

SOURCE Marriott International, Inc.