Premium Swiss chocolatier, Lindt announces its partnership with Autism Speaks for a third year to raise funds for the autism cause during the Easter season. As a cornerstone of the partnership, Lindt will again support the non-profit through donations from sales of the iconic Lindt Gold Bunny. Additional funds for Autism Speaks will be raised through the second annual Lindt Gold Bunny Celebrity Auction, Lindt Easter e-cards, and a new Lindt Facebook initiative.

Now through Easter, April 24, 2011, Lindt will donate 10 cents to Autism Speaks for every Lindt Gold Bunny purchased in the United States, up to $100,000. Lindt Gold Bunny, the #1 selling chocolate bunny in the United States, is available in five sizes and three chocolate varieties: milk, dark and white chocolate. It is a premium addition to any Easter basket, and a perfect way for people to celebrate spring and help give back at the same time.

Porcelain Lindt Gold Bunny figurines, autographed by top celebrities, will be auctioned off this spring when Lindt hosts the second annual Lindt Gold Bunny Celebrity Auction, with all proceeds going directly to Autism Speaks. In addition, consumers can support the cause by sending free Lindt e-cards to family and friends for Easter, or by "like"-ing Lindt on Facebook. Available at LindtGoldBunny.com, Lindt will donate $1 to Autism Speaks for every e-card sent, up to $5,000, and for every new Lindt Facebook "like," Lindt will also donate $1 to Autism Speaks, up to an additional $5,000.

"We are very pleased to be partnering with Autism Speaks for a third year to help support a cause that affects so many," said Thomas Linemayr, chief executive officer and president of Lindt USA. "First introduced more than 60 years ago, Lindt Gold Bunny is now a beloved icon of the Easter season and we're very happy it is also the bunny that gives back."

As an extension of the partnership, Lindt continues to honor champions for the cause through the third annual Lindt Unsung Heroes of Autism program. The program rewards three individuals who are making a difference for those affected by autism in their family, home or community.

"One in 110 children and countless family members across the country are touched daily by the effects of autism," said Mark Roithmayr, president of Autism Speaks, North America's largest autism research and advocacy organization. "We are delighted to continue our partnership with Lindt and appreciate their commitment to growing the program."

For more information on the Lindt and Autism Speaks partnership and related initiatives, Lindt Gold Bunny, or to send an Easter themed e-card, visit www.LindtGoldBunny.com. To "like" Lindt on Facebook visit Facebook.com/LindtChocolate. For more information about Autism Speaks, visit www.AutismSpeaks.org.