Special Needs Network

11/21/16

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CELEBRITIES JOIN IN 4-WEEK GIFT-GIVING CAMPAIGN

FOR CHILDREN WITH AUTISM

Non-Profits Re-Set Post-Election Tone & Reach Out in Holiday Spirit

(Los Angeles) — Special Needs Network under the direction of television personality, Areva Martin, is proud to partner with D.L. Hughley of the D.L. Hughley Foundation and TV’s Young & Hungry star, Kym Whitley as they lead an effort to collect 10,000 gifts for deserving children and their families over the next four weeks. Coming off perhaps the most divisive presidential campaign in modern history, the group hopes this season of giving will encourage individuals and businesses to help create a new tone and focus for a deeply divided nation. Giving to others in need can help to empower one’s self, while easing fears and spreading joy.

“Too many families are frightened about their livelihoods, safety, and security in this post election America. Now more than ever, we need to rally together and show each other love and support. That’s why I’m partnering with Special Needs Network for 4 weeks of Christmas giving. It’s the perfect opportunity to spread joy in the midst of a grey and an uncertain time”, explains D.L. Hughley

From November 21st through December 17^th, the public and businesses are encouraged to donate unwrapped toys, books, educational items or monetary donations to be distributed to children with autism, special needs and other deserving children in the Los Angeles community.

“On the surface, our Christmas Care Exchange may seem like it’s all about toys. Now in our 8^th year, we know the act of giving a child a gift has so much more meaning. When you take the time to act upon a thought of giving, selecting toys and finally gifting the toys- what you are really saying for that moment and always to the child is, You are valued, worthy and cared for. We hope everyone reaches out over the next four weeks to help us reach our goal”, emphasizes Areva Martin

On Saturday, December 17, 2016, popular television star, Kym Whitley will be on hand to spread joy and laughter, meet, greet and help Santa distribute gifts at the 8^th Annual Christmas Care Exchange Brunch + Lunch With Santa, hosted by the Junior Blind of America, located at 5300 Angeles Vista Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90089. Additional festivities include Christmas caroling, live music, dancing, holiday arts & crafts, games, photos with Santa, educational information and family resources. El Pollo Loco will sponsor a Brunch to be served from 9:00 AM – 12:00 Noon and a Lunch from 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM.

This event is open to the public at no charge, but you must RSVP. To RSVP: snnxmas8.eventbrite.com

Additional sponsors for this year’s event include Toyota, KCAL9/CBS2, State Farm Insurance, Children’s Hospital Los Angeles and Beneficial Bank.

Kim Whitley adds, “As someone who is fortunate to have so much, it is humbling and a privilege to be able to help out so many beautiful children who do not. If my efforts can make a child’s Christmas a little more magical, then I am truly blessed this holiday season.”

To Make Donations of Toys, Books, Educational Items or Tax-Deductible Donations: info@specialneedsnetwork.org or 323 291-7100

To Make Donations Via Amazon / D.L. Hughley Toy Drive Page:

https://www.amazon.com/registry/wishlist/3OLH7EMIZDL3B/ref=cm_sw_r_sms_awwl_xs_46hmybZAJE8PR

About Special Needs Network, Inc.

Special Needs Network’s mission is to raise public awareness of developmental disabilities and to impact public policy, while providing education and resources to families, children and adults. SNN serves as a link between under-served communities and mainstream developmental disability organizations and governmental institutions, which often fail to address issues specific to these communities. SNN firmly believes that dignity, hope and opportunity are the birthright of all children.

About D.L. Hughley Foundation

D.L. Hughley Foundation’s mission is to support the efforts of change and movements of empowerment among individuals and organizations of marginalized communities. We enrich our community by providing various forms of support, including supplementing the goals of our partners through charitable donations. The D.L. Hughley Foundation firmly believes that when you pay it forward, we all win.

Press Inquiries: turk@turkentertainmentpr.com

Special Needs Network Information: info@specialneedsnetwork.org or 323 291-7100

D.L. Hughley Foundation Information: tracey@switchmediainc.com