Fast Food Giant Raises $15M for Military Vets

CKE Restaurants, the parent company that owns Hardee’s and Carl’s Jr., has stepped up for military veterans and their families.

The company has raised more than $15 million for those who deserve it most.

If you are looking to eat at a restaurant that supports a great cause, look no further than your local Hardee’s or Carl’s Jr.

The annual Stars for Heroes campaign, which started on Memorial Day this year, has already reached the million-dollar mark in 2025, bringing the total raised (over the course of the fundraiser’s fourteen year run) to more than $15 million.

While picking up their food, customers are asked if they would like to buy a star for a dollar, as a donation. The paper star is signed by the customer and displayed inside the restaurant location.

According to Nation’s Restaurant News, every cent of the money raised by CKE Restaurants for this campaign goes to support post-9/11 veterans and their families through national nonprofit partner USA Cares.

Some of the funds also get distributed to a variety of local charities, which are selected by franchisees.

President of Carl’s Jr., Blake Devillier, says: “Together, the teams at Hardee’s and Carl’s Jr., show their shared commitment to supporting the men and women who have served our country — not just in words, but in action.”

The subtle flex here is that they aren’t just thanking the troops and their families, they are taking action by raising money to help these families go on with their lives after serving.

How Many Hardee’s and Carl’s Jr. Locations Are There?

There are an estimated 1,028 Carl’s Jr. locations and 1,565 Hardee’s locations in America. Carl’s Jr.’s are located in the western half of America, while Hardee’s is in the east.

When Was the USA Cares Charity Established?

USA Cares was established in 2003 to help post 9/11 military veterans and their families.