Ryan Stanzel
Director of Communications
Wednesday, September 7, 2005
713.361.7930 (Direct Line)

HAC, SUNSHINE KIDS TO HELP CHILDREN OF NEW ORLEANS

Casino Night proceeds to go towards Sunshine Kids located in Louisiana

HOUSTON, Texas – Houston Aeros Charities and The Sunshine Kids Foundation announced Tuesday that proceeds from the September 29 “Casino Night” at the Hess Club will benefit the Foundation’s Kids in New Orleans. In addition, proceeds from the current Aeros.com Hurricane Katrina Relief Auction will also help The Sunshine Kids serve their children in New Orleans.

The Sunshine Kids Foundation (www.sunshinekids.org) is a non-profit organization dedicated to children with cancer. Established in 1982, the Sunshine Kids Foundation is committed to providing positive group activities and emotional support for young cancer patients. The foundation provides a variety of programs and events, free of charge, for kids who are receiving cancer treatments in hospitals across North America. There are approximately 40,000 children in hospitals across the country who are undergoing painful, isolating cancer treatments.

The Sunshine Kids, based in Houston, currently serves approximately 90 children and their families in Louisiana, many of whom live in the New Orleans area. After Hurricane Katrina and the subsequent flooding of the city, nearly a dozen pediatric oncology patients affiliated with The Sunshine Kids had to be airlifted out of New Orleans Children’s Hospital. These Kids are now being cared for at Texas Children’s Hospital. In addition, the Sunshine Kids Foundation has more than 200 dedicated donors and volunteers in the New Orleans area, including members of the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office, and had planned to open its first affiliate office in New Orleans this fall.

“We are devastated by the terrible situation in New Orleans. Our hearts ache for what our Kids and friends in that area are enduring,” said Peggy Rhoads, Sunshine Kids' director of development. “We are committed to continuing to provide activities and emotional support to our New Orleans Kids. Now more than ever, it is crucial to bring a little joy back into their lives.”

Individual tickets for the event are $100 and include beverages, hors d’oeuvres, and playing chips for the Texas Hold ‘Em Tournament or the Casino games area. Sponsorship packages are still available. Not only is it a great way to advertise your company, but also shows your community support. For more information on pricing, please click here, or call 713.974.PUCK (7825).

The Hess Club is located at 5430 Westheimer and will open its doors 7 p.m., and the tournament begins at 8 p.m.

This is not a mandatory event for Aeros players. Also, all participants must be 21 years of age.


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