GATEWAY ACADEMY'S "CARING FOR KATRINA'S KIDS" PROGRAM

As we have watched the unfolding disaster along the Gulf Coast this week, we are simply astonished with the terrible destruction and the seemingly insurmountable crisis that exists for the families and the children in that area. While the needs are obviously staggering, there is simply no hesitation in our minds that, as a company caring for children, and Americans, we must do something!

Since the families from that area are being taken to so many locations around our country, it is difficult to identify where our help might best be felt, other than the American Red Cross, who is certainly better equipped to know where the greatest relief will be needed. Consequently, Gateway Academy Child Development Center has implemented the following programs.

Each of the 20 Gateway Academy centers in our company, throughout Colorado, North Carolina and South Carolina, has joined together to host a "Caring for Katrina's Kids" Red Cross Contribution Drive from September 6th through the 16th. We have asked those families who would like to participate to place their donation in the BIG red bucket in the front lobby. We'll happily accept any donation—large and small. We ask that all donations be made out to "The American Red Cross/Hurricane Katrina Relief" - not Gateway Academy. The contributions will be collected and presented to each of the Gateway region's local Red Cross chapter.

We are also planning to donate all proceeds from each of our 20 "Gateway Academy Fall Festivals" to a specific childcare program in the Gulf area through the Southern Early Childhood Association.

If any of our Gateway parents have families or loved ones in the disaster area needing specific help please let us know. We will conduct a separate in-house "Adopt a Family" program for these families.

Gateway Academy is committed to caring for our young children and their families, and we are anxious to do whatever we can to help all the victims of this American tragedy. Thank you for your support!

Fran Harper
General Manager
Gateway Academy Child Development Centers
115 Atrium Way, Suite 204
Columbia, South Carolina 29223
803 788 5935
www.gatewayacademy.com