Belk Inc. has announced that its fall charity sale Nov. 5 raised more than $5 million for some 7,700 participating nonprofits throughout its 16-state market area.

The semiannual Belk charity sale provides opportunities for local nonprofit organizations to sell $5 tickets to supporters and keep all revenues from ticket sales. Ticket purchasers receive deep store discounts on purchases throughout the store during the special sale hours.

The local store in Pinecrest Plaza in Southern Pines participates in the event, which helps a number of nonprofit organizations in Moore County.

"This fall's charity sale proved to be a great success and the money raised for these very deserving schools and organizations show how our communities embrace the spirit of giving," said Tim Belk, chairman and CEO of Belk Inc. "Belk has a deeply rooted tradition of giving dating back to our founders more than a century ago, and we are committed to continuing this proud heritage of community involvement."

Jessica Graham, vice president of communications and community relations at Belk, added, "We'd also like to recognize Belk associates for the important role they play in the success of the charity sale."

In 2011, the charity sale assisted nonprofits such as the Disabled American Veterans, Easter Seals, visually impaired people, regional Junior League associations, Boy and Girl Scouts, Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, American Red Cross, the United Way, animal rescue organizations, local school athletic and scholastic organizations, and local churches.

Belk's spring charity sale, held April 16, also raised more than $5 million for charities, bringing the 2011 total for both events to more than $10 million.

Belk's next charity sale is slated for April 21, 2012.

In return for a $5 donation, customers receive a ticket admitting them to the charity sale, entitling them to merchandise discounts ranging from 20 percent to 70 percent off Belk purchases. Customers also receive $5 off their first purchase of $5 or more at the event.

Belk cardholders receive double rewards points, and Belk Elite cardholders receive triple rewards points for card purchases.

Prior to the event, participating local charities sell $5 tickets, with all proceeds from each ticket sold retained by the charity.