For Immediate Release

Media Contact: Justin Burke - 213.201.1525

EMAIL:jburke@apla.org

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: September 19, 2000

AIDS PROJECT LOS ANGELES TO HOST 6TH ANNUAL HOLIDAY TOY DRIVE

Los Angeles -- AIDS Project Los Angeles (APLA) is kicking off its 6th Annual Toy Drive to help bring holiday cheer to children and families affected by HIV and AIDS. APLA will collect toys through December 21. Last year, 2000 toys were distributed to more than 400 children. For more information, please call the APLA Toyline at (323) 993-1342 or e-mail fionak@apla.org.

"We want to bring smiles to the kids' faces, and also help relieve their parents of the financial and emotional strain of providing gifts during a time when it is most difficult," said Fiona Kyck, APLA's Women's Services Coordinator and toy drive organizer.

"Each year I come to APLA for help with toys for my children. It is such a great help, because without them, my children wouldn't have Christmas," said an APLA client.

APLA asks that toys are new, unwrapped and appropriate for girls and boys up to age 14. Donations of new gift wrapping paper are also needed. Items can be dropped off at APLA, 1313 North Vine Street in Hollywood and should be clearly marked with the donor's name and contact information.

AIDS Project Los Angeles, a non-profit community-based organization, provides direct services to more than 8,000 men, women and children living with HIV and AIDS in Los Angeles County. Services include a food bank, a dental clinic, housing assistance, transportation, mental health counseling, case management, home health care and Adult and Child Buddy Support. APLA also provides extensive treatment and prevention education and advocacy on local, state and federal AIDS-related legislation.

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