The District of Columbia Water and Sewer Authority (DC Water) and the DC Department of Public Works (DPW) will kick off the 9th Annual Bread for the Soul Holiday Drive Monday, November 29, 2010. For almost a decade, employees from both agencies have donated more than $30,000 for food and gifts for over 1,000 District families affected by HIV and AIDS.

“Given the tough economic climate, it may be difficult for many District families affected by HIV and AIDS to enjoy the holiday season. That’s why Team Blue has mobilized once again to support Bread for the Soul,” said DC Water General Manager George S. Hawkins. “By increasing our efforts, we hope to help many more families this year.”

From now through December 16, DC Water and DPW employees will be collecting toys, books and cash donations. Collection bins for gifts have been placed in designated locations at all DC Water and DPW facilities. Citizens may also bring new, unwrapped toys and books to DPW, located on the sixth floor of the Reeves Center at 2000 14th Street, NW. All food baskets and gifts will be delivered to the families on Saturday, December 18, 2010.

“I realize all of our employees may not be able to give a gift or money, but chances are they can volunteer at DC Water on Friday, December 17 or Saturday, December 18 to help assemble gift baskets, load vehicles or personally deliver a few holiday baskets,” said DPW Director William O. Howland, Jr., who helps deliver the meals each year. “There are families battling major obstacles just to put food on the table for their children. We will do our best to support their efforts."

Bread for the Soul is a 20-year-old local nonprofit organization that, during the holiday season, delivers food baskets, books, toys and cash donations to families affected by HIV and AIDS. Last year, DC Water (formerly DC WASA) and DPW employees donated more than $6,000 and several hundred toys and books.

For more information, contact DC Water at (202) 787-2200 or DPW at (202) 673-6812.