GREENWICH, Conn., Dec. 12, 2013 -- Blyth, Inc., a direct to consumer company and leading designer and marketer of health & wellness and beauty products, as well as candles and accessories for the home sold through the direct selling and direct marketing channels, announced that its PartyLite division, the world's largest direct-seller of candles, candle accessories and premium home fragrance products, and its 15 thousand North American independent consultants will participate in its eighth consecutive year of supporting NBC-TV's TODAY show's Holiday Gift Drive. Appearing on the December 13th segment, Michael Norris, PartyLite North America's President, noted that it is with great pride that PartyLite is once again able to participate in this holiday program, donating $1.4 million in products for less-advantaged children to use as holiday gifts for their parents and teachers. PartyLite's independent consultants have a long tradition of supporting both national and local charitable organizations, most notably the American Cancer Society and, in Canada, the Children's Miracle Network.

According to Michael Norris, President of PartyLite Americas, this is the company's eighth year donating products to this famous charity. "This is the TODAY Show Holiday Gift Drive's 20th anniversary year," he said, "and we're delighted to report that our total contribution to date totals just over $20 million!"

"We've pioneered the idea of donating gifts kids can give to their moms or their grandmothers or perhaps their teachers," said Norris. "The local organizations that ultimately distribute these products tell us they love our concept of teaching children to give as well as to receive. Some of them actually create special holiday programs where children can wrap presents for their moms, make a card and really feel proud of having a holiday gift to give to the special person in their lives."

Norris, who will appear on the TODAY Show on December 13th, pointed out that while PartyLite is a key individual donor to the gift drive, the company is also proud to be part of the Direct Selling Association's contribution. "As a longstanding member of DSA, we're happy to join with others in our industry in supporting this very worthwhile cause," he said.