The holiday season often evokes special feelings of family togetherness, joyous celebrations, warm homes, and tables filled with favorite holiday dishes. But, there are many who, for whatever reason, find these comforts elusive now and, in fact, all year long. As Many Mansions' resident Cathy tells us, "One minute you are a productive human being with the future planned out, the next minute your life falls completely apart."

Cathy came to Stoll House in need of the support and friendship of caring professionals who could help her find her way...and she did! Cathy is one of the thousands of individuals Many Mansions has helped this year and each year for almost 30 years. But today, we have more than 800 families on our waiting list who need our help. And we need your help in our efforts to break the cycle of poverty that can often lead to homelessness.

In the spirit of the season, we are asking you to make a gift today to help those in need. Did you know that just $365, that's a dollar for each day of the year, can help underwrite the rent for a homeless family at Many Mansions, or fund a 10-week parenting class for a previously homeless mother or father, or send 1 child to camp for 5 weeks?

Please take some time out now to give generously to those whose need is great. Your gift can be even more meaningful by making it in honor of or in memory of a friend or loved one. You can also maximize your gift if your company has a matching gift program--ask your Human Resources Department. Please send your gift today to Many Mansions, 1459 E. Thousand Oaks Blvd., Bldg. D, Thousand Oaks, CA 91362, Attn: Holiday Appeal, or simply go to www.manymansions.org and click on Donate Now.

Thank you for your gift of friendship and continued support; together we represent hope for the homeless, stability for families, and strength in the community. From all of us at Many Mansions, have a joyous holiday season and a happy new year!

Many Mansions is a California 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.