Los Angeles, CA—(HISPANIC PR WIRE)–December 8, 2004–Remembering those left behind because of the war this holiday season, Marshalls is partnering with Operation Homefront’s Los Angeles area chapter to help promote the importance of helping military families with loved ones deployed in the war. Marshalls will make a call to action to businesses, community and the media to support these families at a media event on Thursday, December 9, 11:30 a.m., at Olvera Street (Kiosk) in downtown Los Angeles.

To show its appreciation to the women who have made sacrifices with their husbands/sons at war, Marshalls will showcase two military wives in a make-over and offer Operation Homefront’s participating wives at the event the opportunity for two additional make-overs. In addition, the off-price store will present a check for $2000 to Operation Homefront and provide a holiday celebration to more than a dozen military wives with a surprise appearance by Santa Claus distributing gifts from the Marshalls Wish-Upon-A-Star Christmas Tree.

Actress Jackie Guerra – host of DIY Network’s Jewelry Making and host of the Style Network’s “You’re Invited” – will emcee the event. Acknowledging the military families’ contributions on behalf of the military will be A. Gus Hernandez, Major General, U.S. Army Volunteer Reserve and Silver Star Recipient.

Alex & Friends Salon from Pasadena, California will provide in-kind hair, make-up and style services. DIY Network will provide gift bags with goggles, measuring tapes, and other items to help participating women with household activities. A representative from Lt. Governor Cruz Bustamante will also point to the California Military Family Relief Fund bill that will go into effect January 2005. The City of Los Angeles representative will also help welcome Operation Homefront to the area.

“We found ourselves wondering how we could help the women that come through our store doors, many of whom are facing more challenges this year because their loved ones are deployed overseas,” said Marcie Perez, spokeswoman for Marshalls. “Through this event, Marshalls aims to inspire a call to action for the public to assist these families through Operation Homefront during the holidays.”

Operation Homefront, a non-profit organization which began in San Diego after 9/11, has expanded it’s organization to over 30 chapters nationwide with over 1,500 volunteers. The greater Los Angeles Area Chapter, encompassing seven counties including Los Angeles, Orange and Ventura Counties, Inland Empire, Barstow, and Twenty-Nine Palms, was formed earlier this year. Unlike most organizations that focus on soldiers’ needs, Operation Homefront assists military families with day-to-day needs. Primary areas of support include auto repairs, donation of pre-owned vehicles, plumbing, electrical, roof and fence repairs, general contractor and handyman services, used computer donations, appliance repair, food assistance, some counseling, among other services. .

“By providing even the smallest assistance to these military families, Operation Homefront helps put the soldiers at ease. When the soldiers get emails from their loved ones saying the washing machine is broken, the car is not running properly, or the faucet is leaking, we step in with the support of the community,” said Sandy Aldridge, director of West Coast Operations, Operation Homefront. “It helps the soldiers concentrate on what they have to do overseas without worrying about their families.”

Operation Homefront can be reached at 1-888-967-5623. They have also set up a toll free number for Spanish-language calls at 1-800-722-5750.

Marshalls

Marshalls is one of the nation’s leading off-price family retailers with more than 700 stores spanning 42 states and Puerto Rico. Marshalls offers a wide selection of current season, top quality, brand name fashions, footwear, giftware and domestics for the family and home. For store locations, call 1-800-MARSHALLS, or visit Marshalls on the Web at http://www.MarshallsOnline.com.

Operation Homefront

In the aftermath of September 11th, Operation Homefront was created to channel volunteer support to help the families of our deployed military personnel. With hundreds of thousands of service members deployed for war with Iraq, thousands of spouses and children are left behind, many in need.

Operation Homefront provides assistance to families and deployed service members in the following areas: crucial car repair assistance; home and appliance repair; Refurbished internet computers; moving and transportation assistance; furniture; food distribution; and children’s Items. Learn more at http://www.operationhomefront.net/about.html

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CONTACT:

Euro RSCG Magnet

Marcie Perez or Edna Silva

951-272-1888 ext. 22 / ext. 15

or

Operation Homefront:

Jim Bras

714-272-1170