Sleep Country USA announced today that community members in Washington and Oregon had donated more than 1,100 winter coats for needy foster children, during its recent month long radio and television drive. The campaign was part of Sleep Country's ongoing public awareness program, to help communities within its retail area respond to the many needs of these children. The winter season is a particularly vulnerable time for these kids and the drive has ensured that many will have the protection of a winter coat.

However, in acknowledging the generosity of the general public, Sleep Country indicates there is still much more to be done to help foster children in its area. With approximately 23,000 infants to teenagers in this circumstance in the Pacific Northwest, Sleep Country is committed to continuing its public awareness program in support of these children. "We are very appreciative of the public's generosity in giving to this and other Sleep Country initiatives in behalf of foster children," said Terry Horsley, Executive Vice President of Sleep Country, USA. "However, we recognize that the needs of these children are many and great. We urge the communities within our retail area to rally around these foster child programs and let these kids know that we care."

Eleven non-profit foster care organizations in Washington and Oregon were the beneficiaries of this year's coat drive and have passed them along to families and children in their area. "We want our community members to know that the items they donate, through Sleep Country programs, stay right here and serve the children in our communities," said Toni Hartsfield, volunteer coordinator at Seattle's Treehouse for Kids. "The generosity of the people of Seattle has made it possible for many children to have a new or nearly new coat this winter season and we want them to know how appreciative we are of their support."

"The response to the Sleep Country initiative has provided much needed protection this winter for the children we serve in the Portland area," said Meg Eberle, Director of Portland's Foster Family Care Network. "However, equally important is the message of caring that we send to these children through our generous donations. Like all children, foster kids need to know they are loved and that we care about them and are willing to support them emotionally as well as on a practical basis. Supporting these program sends that message."

Sleep Country USA will continue its support of the growing number of foster children in Washington and Oregon through its public awareness programs. It encourages the media and other community leaders to join the effort to educate the general public about the enormous need in this area and how they can help a foster child lead as normal a family life as possible. Throughout the month of March, Sleep Country will again hit the airwaves to encourage individuals and families to volunteer their time in some small way to help these Sleep Country foster kids.

About Sleep Country USA
Sleep Country USA is the largest retail chain in the Northwestern United States featuring premium brand mattresses, adjustable beds, futons, and wood and metal accent beds. Founded in 1991, the company currently operates 48 retail stores in the states of Washington and Oregon. It enjoys an unmatched reputation for customer service, and has been designated "Best Place to Work" in Washington, by Washington CEO Magazine.

To arrange an interview with Terry Horsley at Sleep Country USA or
representatives of foster care organizations, or for more information
please contact:

George Bowie
Westmoor Consulting
Tel. 801-377-2354
E-mail: georgebowie@msn.com

Sleep Country USA

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