San Leandro Shelter Reopening Soon
Needs Donated Items for Residents

San Leandro, CA (August 22, 2005) - Building Futures with Women and Children is deeply grateful for the items which generous community members have donated in response to Building Futures' request for supplies to restock the San Leandro Shelter.

The Shelter, which has served homeless women and children from Alameda County since 1986, is reopening September 6 after renovations made possible by funding from State of California and the City of San Leandro.

On behalf of the 275 homeless women and children served each year at the San Leandro Shelter, community members are asked to consider donating new twin-size sheets or blankets, new pillows, or Costco gift certificates (for one time purchases like kitchen appliances).

"The response from the community to this gift drive has been gratifying," says Development Manager Patricia Bidar. "We've got to make one last appeal, before we welcome new residents, to outfit the Shelter with new bedding and kitchen items by Labor Day."

For information call Andrea Zeppa at (510) 357-0205, ext. 132. Building Futures requests that donated items be new. Please note that Building Futures is not looking for donations of furniture or used clothing at this time.

The agency will host a Rededication Celebration event on September 22, at which they look forward to recognizing those who help to equip the Shelter.

Those who would prefer to make a monetary donation to offset costs of restocking the Shelter are encouraged to send them to: Friends of the San Leandro Shelter, Building Futures with Women and Children, 1395 Bancroft Avenue, San Leandro, CA 94577.

For information call Andrea Zeppa at (510) 357-0205, ext. 132. Building Futures' mission is to build communities with underserved women and children where they are safely housed, free from homelessness and family violence. For information about Building Futures, call (510) 357-0205, or visit www.bfwc.org.

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