For immediate release

Hamilton CAS launches holiday family sponsorship program

HAMILTON, November 5, 2002

With the December holiday season fast approaching, The Children's Aid Society of Hamilton has launched an appeal to individuals, families, service organizations, schools and local businesses to join the agency in its efforts to bring a bit of holiday comfort to families who are struggling to get by.

"The need is great. Over the past year, our Society has seen an increasing number of families whose lives are wracked by violence, poverty, homelessness and illness," says Dominic Verticchio, Executive Director. "Some have lost jobs. Others are single parents who continue to survive on reduced benefits. Most are spending the majority of their incomes on housing and what little is left over for food. The holiday season is a most difficult time for these families."

The Society knows of a minimum of 75 families in Hamilton who could benefit from the Society's Family Sponsorship Program. Support from sponsors can be in the form of providing the ingredients for a holiday meal for a family and/or by providing gifts for family members.

CAS Child Protection Workers, who are familiar with their needs, recommend families for the program. Sponsors are provided with a non-identifying profile of the family, which includes the ages and interests of family members.

"People in Hamilton do care," says Tracy Thorne, Co-ordinator of Volunteer Services. "Each year we are overwhelmed by the generosity and thoughtfulness of those who come forward to help."

The Society will also operate a Toy Room throughout December. Those who are unable to sponsor a family, but would like to donate new toys or clothing, may drop off items at the CAS office located at 143 Wentworth Street South, Hamilton.

For more information on how to become a sponsor, please call Tracy Thorne, at 905-522-1121, extension 3203.

-30-

For more information, please contact:
Dianne Pearson
Manager of Communications & Development
905-522-1121 ext. 2110