Cartoon Network and Best Western
International are uniting in their support of UNICEF’s tsunami relief and
recovery, creating the “Kids Help Out Matching Program.” The joint
initiative seeks to empower, recognize and encourage the generosity and
leadership of individual children, schools and youth groups in their
efforts to assist those affected by the deadly tsunami in South Asia. As part of its “Best Western for a Better World” community service
program, the world’s largest hotel chain will double the amount raised by
children through the “Kids Help Out Matching Program,” directing its
recently announced $400,000 UNICEF donation to this matching funds effort.
Donations from kids (under age 18) to UNICEF tsunami relief and recovery
will be matched retroactive to December 26, 2004 and will continue through
March 31, 2005. Cartoon Network will air “Kids Help Out” public service
announcements featuring some of the music world’s top names singing “Give
A Little Bit.” Performers include Clay Aiken, India Arie and John Ondrasik
of Five For Fighting. Children, parents and teachers can learn more about
the program at http://www.kidshelpout.org/ .

“The ‘Kids Help Out Matching Program’ gives children across the U.S. the
opportunity to ensure a better future for their peers in South Asia—
boys and girls whose lives have been forever changed by this tragedy,”
said Cartoon Network’s EVP and General Manager Jim Samples. “We are
thrilled to join Best Western in this collaborative effort to support the
incredible work of UNICEF throughout the region.”

“Best Western International is proud of our association with Cartoon
Network and UNICEF, working together to engage and educate today’s youth
on the importance of helping others,” said David Kong, Best Western
president and CEO. “We want to encourage all children, as well as other
corporations, to participate in this massive fundraising effort to make a
difference in the lives of those so desperately in need.”

“The tsunami disaster has generated an enormous outpouring of support from
young people everywhere,” said Charles J. Lyons, president of the U.S.
Fund for UNICEF. “Millions of children have taken a leadership role and
demonstrated their compassion and caring for others. We greatly appreciate
the commitment Cartoon Network and Best Western have made to these caring
children, and to our tsunami relief efforts through the ‘Kids Help Out
Matching Program.’”
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