MEDIA ADVISORY

August 24, 2006
CONTACT: Shawn Flaherty, (703) 903-4384
Patricia Fuentes, (703) 903-3504

Aug. 25:Gulf Coast Hurricanes Affected Children and Their Families in a Variety of Ways; Briefing Explores How They Are Faring One Year Later
Freddie Mac and Freddie Mac Foundation Grantees and Survivor Provide Insights into Challenges Facing Families

WHAT: One year after Hurricanes Katrina and Rita hit, many families are back on their feet, but many others are still struggling. Five nonprofits whose work has helped children and families recover will provide insights about what children and families faced a year ago, how they are faring now, what the future looks like and lessons learned. These non-profits helped foster children, children who were separated from their parents, families with children who relocated, and non-English speaking children and their families.

WHY: As Hurricane Katrina and Rita swept through the Gulf Coast region, the nation responded with an outpouring of caring and generosity. Freddie Mac and the Freddie Mac Foundation also worked to make a difference by donating $10 million to 24 nonprofits meeting immediate and long-term needs of thousands of affected children and their families. Non-profits who helped – as well as a mother of four who evacuated – will discuss their experiences during the press briefing.

WHO:

• Ralph F. Boyd, Jr., Executive Vice President, Freddie Mac, and Chairman, Freddie Mac Foundation
• Ernie Allen, President and CEO, National Center for Missing and Exploited Children
• Karen Jorgenson, Executive Director, National Foster Parent Association
• Carol Shannon, Executive Director, Catholic Charities Foundation Washington, DC
• Marty Kooistra, Vice President for Collaborative Alliances, Habitat for Humanity
• Dr. Thang Nguyen, Executive Director, Boat People SOS
• Wanda Everett, Gulf Coast evacuee to DC area and a mother of four

WHEN: Friday, August 25
11:00 am – 12:00 noon

WHERE: Anywhere via phone. To reserve a space, please call Patricia Fuentes at 703-903-3504. On briefing day, call 1 (800) 264-7882.The confirmation number is 15415844.