Chicago Auto Show Helps Feed Area Hungry

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Feb 17, 2010, 10:32 ET

CHICAGO, Feb. 17, /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Hunger is a year-round problem that needs year-round attention, and for the past 15 years the organizers of the Chicago Auto Show have helped stock the shelves of those in need of food with a special discount admission promotion. This year, those who bring three cans of food Wednesday, Feb. 17 through Friday, Feb. 19 will receive a $4 discount off the regular full admission price of admission. Food donations will be distributed by A Safe Haven Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to assisting people in crisis and transition.

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"At the 2009 show, we were fortunate to collect more than 10 tons of food that helped a lot of people," said Kevin Mize, chairman of the Chicago Automobile Trade Association and co-chairman of the show. "The only thing better would be if we could double it—and we'd love to!"

This year, more than 40 Chrysler, Jeep®, Dodge and Ram Truck brand dealerships in the Chicagoland area have assisted the drive by collecting canned food donations beginning February 1.

"Chrysler is dedicated to serving the communities in which we live and work," said Lewis Scott, director of Chrysler's Midwest Business Center. "We are so proud to continue our partnership with A Safe Haven Foundation and the great work they do every day to feed the people of Chicago and, most recently, the victims of the earthquakes in Haiti."

A Safe Haven Foundation recently opened its arms to refugees of the terrible earthquake in Haiti. More than 240 Haitian evacuees have been served by the organization since the earthquake in addition to the daily service to Chicago's homeless.

"It is an incredible opportunity to once again partner with the American icon automaker Chrysler Group LLC," said Neli Vazquez-Rowland, President of A Safe Haven Foundation. "We're happy to raise awareness and support for those experiencing homelessness from the earthquake in Haiti and for Americans who have fallen victim of the economy as they embark on their path to self-sufficiency through an integrated, community-based 'continuum of care' here at A Safe Haven."

Since its inception, more than 300,000 pounds of food have been collected at the Chicago Auto Show. The nation's biggest auto show runs through Feb. 21 at McCormick Place. Show hours are 10 a.m. – 10 p.m. daily except Feb. 21, when the show closes at 8 p.m. For a full schedule and show information, visit www.ChicagoAutoShow.com.

SOURCE Chicago Auto Show