Salem-News.com Charity articles Page 27

Santa Central to Spread Cheer to Foster Children in Marion and Polk Counties

Increasing numbers of children are being rescued from meth houses as a result of anti-methamphetamine initiatives by law enforcement and the Marion County District Attorney’s Office.

(SALEM) - The Marion County Sheriff’s Office, in partnership with the Marion Polk Foster Parents Association, announces the start of the annual “Santa Central” program.

Second Annual New Clothing Drive Starts On Toes of National Foster Month

(SALEM) - The furniture chain Sleep Country USA is nearing the beginning of its 2nd annual New Clothing Drive to benefit area foster children. Growing out of clothes is a common
problem for kids. For more than 23,000 Northwest foster kids, replacing these clothes is also a problem.

With National Foster Care Month quickly approaching in May, Sleep Country USA aims to almost double the number of new clothing items it received last year, targeting 5,000 gifts of new pants, new tops and packaged undergarments in all sizes from infants to teenagers.

"Children that enter foster care often do so with few or no personal items," said Nancy Underwood Long, Washington state community resource coordinator, Families for Kids. "In these cases, the kids are thrilled to have the
opportunity to obtain items like new jeans, shirts, socks and undergarments -

Mr. & Miss Gervais Pageant Raises $13,825 For Worthy Cause

(GERVAIS) - Eight Gervais High School students put their best foot forward during the 2006 Mr. and Miss Gervais Pageant Saturday, March 11th. The pageant was
held at Gervais High School as a benefit for Kids Making Miracles for Doernbecher Children's Hospital.

The pageant contestants raised $13,825 over a three-month period.

Salem Public Library Patrons Combine Fine Forgiveness With Community Service

Pay your late fees by helping a poor family have a good meal

(SALEM) - For one week only, Salem Public Library will forgive fines for patrons who bring in donations of non-perishable food items between Sunday, March 26th and Saturday, April 1st. Donated items benefit the annual Rotary Food Drive on behalf of Marion-Polk Food Share. For the third year, this effort coincides with Spring Break.

Food items will be accepted at the Central Library, West Salem Branch, and on the Bookmobile...