FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT: Dawn Rivera, 271-1000, Duane Girdner, 469-1410

DATE: January 5, 2009

ST. JOHN’S MEADOWS DONATES BOOKS AND BEARS

FOR READING CELEBRATION

“Nothing comforts a child like a teddy bear...and a good book,” says Margaret Thirtle, a resident of St. John’s Meadows senior living community, located in Brighton. After months of preparation, on Tuesday, January 13, a group of senior volunteers will introduce 47 students from the Martin B. Anderson School #1, 85 Hillside Avenue, to their furry new reading partners. As returning volunteers in the school's Reader/Writer Bear Program, the Meadows' residents will present each child with a teddy bear, bundled in a hand-knit hat, and a book, beginning at 10:15 a.m. in the auditorium. The seniors will then spend time reading to the children, with the hopes of instilling the importance of reading for children and teaching for adults.

Also key to the success of this mission have been Sally Christiansen and Kay Harder, members of the Gates Presbyterian Church, and Girl Scouts from troop #21 in Henrietta, who helped to package these special deliveries and coordinate details with district personnel.

St. John’s Meadows senior living community is sponsored by St. John's, a registered Eden Alternative provider, and industry leader in care and residential options for elders. The Meadows, which celebrated its 10^th anniversary in 2008, is home to nearly 400 residents in a total of 339 homes. St. John’s Meadows offers independent living in private, two-bedroom cottages and apartments, fine dining, and assisted living services.

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