Today, on Worlds AIDS Day, the DC Water and Sewer Authority (DC WASA) and the DC Department of Public Works (DPW) kickoff their annual charity drive to support some District families affected by HIV and AIDS. Employees from DC WASA and DPW will join forces again for the 8th Annual Bread for the Soul Toy and Food Drive. Through the campaign, DC WASA and DPW provide gift baskets to several District families impacted by HIV and AIDS. Both agencies aim to help 300 families this year.

“We realize the challenges many District families affected by HIV and AIDS are faced with on a daily basis. That’s why DC WASA employees are donating their time and money to making Bread for the Soul a huge success,” said DC WASA General Manager George S. Hawkins. “The entire DC WASA blue community is committed to working even harder to increase donations and help even more families this year.”

From now through December 17, 2009, DC WASA and DPW employees are collecting toys, books and cash donations. Residents may drop off new, unwrapped toys and books at various DC Public Library locations throughout the District. For a list of library locations, visit their website, www.dcpl.dc.gov. All food baskets and gifts will be delivered to the families on Monday, December 21, 2009.

“I personally get involved with this project each year because I believe public service is more than just a 9 to 5 job,” said DPW Director William O. Howland, Jr. “Bread for the Soul gives parents, with HIV and AIDS, and their children what they need to brighten the holiday season, which is why so many DPW employees participate each year.”

Last year, DC WASA and DPW employees donated more than $8,000 and hundreds of toys and books. Through their combined efforts, over 100 families received food baskets and approximately 300 children were provided with gifts.

Bread for the Soul is an 18-year-old local nonprofit organization that delivers food baskets, books, toys and cash donations to families affected by HIV and AIDS during the holiday season.

If you would like to make a donation, please contact DC WASA’s Office of Public Affairs at (202) 787-2200 or the Office of the Director at DPW at (202) 673-6812.