FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT:
Kristin Derlunas
Northern Virginia Family Service
Community/Media Relations
703-219-2123, kderlunas@nvfs.org

Healthy Families Alexandria to Host Benefit Event

Oakton, Va., May 6, 2005—Healthy Families Alexandria (HFA) announced today it is hosting a Cabaret Night at MetroStage to benefit the children and families it serves. HFA is a program of Northern Virginia Family Service (NVFS).

“We are excited about the upcoming Cabaret Night at MetroStage. We encourage residents to attend this evening of music, which is being held for a very important cause. Funds raised at this event directly support the well-being of children and families in the City of Alexandria," said Carter Flemming, chair of the MetroStage Event Committee.

Cabaret Night will be held on May 23, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., at MetroStage, 1201 N. Royal St.,
Alexandria. It will feature music by the Alexandria City Employees Choir.

Healthy Families Alexandria is a voluntary home visiting program that supports new parents and their young children ages 0-5 during a child’s most rapid and significant phase of development. Started in 1993, the program improves parenting, encourages child health and development and prevents child abuse and neglect. More than 250 families received services in 2004.

Affiliated with Healthy Families America, a national initiative of Prevent Child Abuse America, the program is a public/private partnership funded at the local and state level. More than 35 communities in Virginia have chosen Healthy Families as a cost-effective way to strengthen families, because Healthy Families works. Outcomes studies show that families who participate have children who are safe, healthy and ready to learn when they start school.

HFA would like to thank sponsors of the MetroStage event: Carolyn Griffin, Producing Artistic Director of MetroStage; Jim Murray Jr. at Nordic Press; Antonio Alcala and Helen McNeil at Studio A; Cindy Lazo at Whole Foods Market; Trader Joes; Hollin Hall Pastry Shop; and Helen Olivia.

To purchase tickets, or for complimentary media registration, please contact HFA Program Manager Carol Freeman at 703-212-1702.

Established in 1924, Northern Virginia Family Service is a private, non-profit community service resource dedicated to helping individuals and families find new paths to self-reliance and brighter futures. Each year, NVFS helps more than 27,000 people find affordable housing and health care for their children, earn a living wage and much more. For more information, visit www.nvfs.org.

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