World Vision shares true meaning of Christmas with GTA commuters

MISSISSAUGA, ON, Nov. 27 /CNW/ - During the week of November 30 through December 4, World Vision staff and some furry friends, will greet commuters at Toronto area GO stations in an effort to raise awareness about children and families living in poverty. This holiday season, GTA residents have the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of others through the World Vision Gift Catalogue. Local commuters will learn how their purchases provide essential items for children and families and will have a chance to experience the catalogue and learn more about the gifts offered.

"The gift catalogue is very popular with residents in the Toronto area because it is a tangible way to give a meaningful gift during the holiday season," says Caroline Riseboro, Director of Specialized Marketing at World Vision. "Our presence at GO stations next week is meant to increase awareness about the needs of others during the Christmas season, and say thank you to thousands of GTA residents who help year after year through their purchases from the World Vision Gift Catalogue."

In 2008, over 40,000 GTA residents spent over a million dollars in gifts for those less fortunate in developing countries. Gifts such as mosquito nets, antibiotics and school supplies offer hope and positive change in the lives of others.

    
    WHAT:  A fun way for commuters to celebrate the true meaning of
           Christmas. This is an opportunity for commuters to learn about an
           alternative way to give this holiday season by purchasing gifts
           available in the World Vision Gift Catalogue.

    WHEN:  November 30 through December 4, 2009, 6 a.m. - 8 a.m.

    WHERE: November 30 - Oakville - 214 Cross Avenue, Oakville, ON
           December 1 - Unionville - 7970 Kennedy Road, Markham, ON
           December 2 - Meadowvale - 6845 Millcreek Drive, Mississauga, ON
           December 3 - Bramalea - 1713 Steeles Avenue, Brampton, ON
           December 4 - Ajax - 100 Westney Road South, Ajax, ON

    PHOTO/VIDEO/INTERVIEW OPPORTUNITIES:
        -  Speak to GTA residents who have shopped using the catalogue.
        -  Staff dressed as "furry friends" (cow, rooster) portraying some of
           the livestock gift options.
        -  One-on-one interviews with World Vision spokespeople.
        -  Hundreds of commuters receiving a World Vision Gift Catalogue with
           a festive backdrop.
    

For more information on World Vision's gift catalogue, visit www.worldvision.ca or call 1-800-844-7993.

For more information about the catalogue please visit www.worldvision.ca/gcnewsroom

World Vision is a Christian relief, development and advocacy organization dedicated to working with children, families and communities to overcome poverty and injustice. World Vision serves all people regardless of religion, race, ethnicity or gender.

For further information: or to arrange an interview, contact: Maria Roman, [phone] ext. 2263, [email protected]; Karen Flores, [phone] ext. 3497, [phone] (mobile), [email protected]