The Churches of Scientology Women's Auxiliary presented the Edelman's
Children Court Center in Monterey Park with a cartload of toys to add
to their "Birthday Closet," a program that ensures that any child who
is in the court system on his or her birthday gets to celebrate it,
presents and all.
Janice Johnson, program manager for the Juvenile Court Services Shelter Care Program, was happy to receive the donation, and acknowledged its importance. Auxiliary member Catherine Lepone of Los Angeles headed up the project and delivered the toys. The donation included dolls, basketballs, board games, trucks, teddy bears, card games and cosmetics. "Every child is special and should be made to feel even more special on his or her birthday," said Ms. Lepone. "Going through the court system is especially stressful, so if a child has an easier time of it because of a birthday gift from us, we've accomplished our goal." L. Ron Hubbard, the founder of the Scientology religion, once wrote, "A being is only as valuable as he can serve others." Scientology churches are well-known leaders in community outreach and social reform, including drug education, drug- and criminal-rehabilitation and literacy programs and human rights awareness activities. |
