Thanks to the generosity of Times readers, local companies, organizations and charitable foundations, The Times 2015 Holiday Appeal has raised a total of $45,214 in support of Christine's Hope for Kids.
Thanks to the generosity of Times readers, local companies, organizations and charitable foundations, The Times 2015 Holiday Appeal has raised a total of $45,214 in support of Christine's Hope for Kids.
The total includes $11,000 from NJM Insurance Group of West Trenton, which, after its initial $5,000 donation to kick-off the Appeal, pledged to donate and additional $1,000 for every $5,000 contributed by the community and other business donors throughout the campaign.
"NJM is delighted to support such a worthy cause as Christine's Hope for Kids, which focuses on the needs of less fortunate children in our area," said Patricia Hartpence, assistant vice president and director of corporate giving at NJM. "Also, we are so grateful for the generous contributions from Times' readers and other community members in response to our matching pledge, and to the Times for overseeing this wonderful holiday effort."
"The Times is grateful for the generous support of NJM, and all those who contributed to the Times Holiday Appeal for Christine's Hope for Kids," said Joan Mason, publisher of The Times. "We thank everyone for their donations - they are a reflection of the great work being done by the dedicated staff and volunteers of Christine's Hope for Kids. The funds will go a long way in helping them continue their mission to help children in need in our community."
John and Jean Gianacaci, founders of Christine's Hope for Kids, also shared their thanks. "We are always amazed at the generosity of this community. We are so grateful for all of the donations and support we received through The Times Holiday Appeal. You have no idea what this will mean to the countless children that will benefit from your donations."
"We also thank The Times, NJM and the Rose and Louis H. Linowitz Charitable Foundation for this overwhelming opportunity," they continued. "This will help Christine's Hope for Kids serve so many more kids in need right here in our local community, giving them opportunities they may not have had otherwise. We are so grateful."
Recent donations include a gift of $945 from Trenton Catholic Academy with a note from Lower School Director Anne Reap, "It is our honor to support The Times Holiday Appeal as proceeds benefit a charity near and dear to our hearts at Trenton Catholic Academy, Christine's Hope for Kids. Our students continue to financially support our annual Pajama Day fundraiser, embodying the mission of Christine's Hope for Kids - kids helping kids. It is a pleasure to partner with founders John and Jean Gianacaci as they continue to serve children in Mercer County and beyond, in the name of their daughter, Christine."
"At Trenton Catholic Academy, we strive to instill and cultivate a caring and compassionate spirit in our students so they will in turn grow and mature into adults who recognize the need to give back to their local communities," continued Reap. "We thank you for recognizing this well-deserving charitable organization that makes a difference in the lives of so many."
A gift of $300 was also received from Trenton Catholic Academy with a note, "Students from Trenton Catholic Academy held a Candy Gram fundraiser to raise money for Christine's Hope for Kids during December. At TCA, we continue to teach our students that they are part of a larger community and the importance of being active participants in the community. We are so pleased to support the great work of Christine's Hope for Kids, an organization that is making such a difference in the lives of children. And thank you to Times Charities for all you do to better our community."
An anonymous donation of $100 was received with a note, "from a member of Princeton Friends Meeting. Thanks for your recognition of the work done in Christine's name."
Diane Goettler of Hamilton sent $50 with a note, "In loving memory of my beautiful mom."
"The outpouring of support from this community to help kids in need is truly amazing," said John and Jean Gianacaci. "It touches our hearts and gives us hope for a brighter future for these kids. They are the next generation of community volunteers, civic leaders, business owners and neighbors."
For more about Christine's Hope for Kids, go to www.christineshope.org.
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