FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact:   Elissa Ruffino (NIAF) 202/939-3106 or elissa@niaf.org

(Washington, D.C. – December 5, 2008) The National Italian American Foundation (NIAF) women’s forum brought Christmas cheer to the mothers, wives and girlfriends of the wounded soldiers at the Walter Reed Army Medical Center on December 2, 2008.

At a NIAF “La Dolce Vita” reception, the Foundation’s female council members and staff presented Christmas gifts including perfume, books, beauty products and stuffed animals to more than 50 families. They were joined by NIAF’s leadership including Board Members Nancy Chistolini and Patricia Harrison. Guests visited with NIAF’s volunteers over cookies, drinks and gifts.

“The NIAF women’s forum thought this was a great way to bring Christmas to those who are unable to be at home over the holiday season,” Chistolini said. “This was accomplished by our contact with The Yellow Ribbon Fund and the outstanding work they provide to our wounded servicemen and women.

In addition to “La Dolce Vita,” the women’s forum will fulfill the Christmas wishes of at-risk children and teenagers ages 2-17 by donating toys, clothing and gift cards to Childhelp Children’s Center in Fairfax, Va., on Monday, December 8, 2008.

NIAF is a non-profit organization based in Washington, D.C., and dedicated to preserving the heritage of Italian Americans. Visit www.niaf.org.