CHARLESTON, W.Va. -- There are approximately 3,000 West Virginia children in some type of out-of-home care today due to crisis in the family. In addition, there are nearly 1,000 children available for adoption. The West Virginia Oil Marketers & Grocers Association (OMEGA), in an effort to help this extremely vulnerable population, is conducting a campaign in April to bring attention and funding to the children and families cared for by the Children's Home Society of West Virginia.
Jan Vineyard, president of OMEGA, which represents convenience stores, independent grocers [image-nocss] and petroleum marketers in the state, said, "We are asking the public to consider honoring their mother, sister or friends this Mother's Day holiday by supporting an organization that works to help children in distress. I would encourage individuals who see the campaign in their local convenience or grocery stores to join us in assisting West Virginia children."
Vineyard said OMEGA has partnered with the Children's Home Society of West Virginia to raise funds that will be used to support child assistance programs, such as emergency child shelters, foster care, adoption, mentoring, early intervention and numerous other family support programs throughout the state. Brightly colored, Mother's Day-themed, paper flowers will be sold for $1 at nearly 500 OMEGA-member convenience and grocery stores across the state from April 15 through Mothers Day, May 8.
Mary White, director of development and philanthropy for the Children's Home Society, said, "This campaign will not only raise awareness about West Virginia children who need help or a family to call their own, but through the graciousness of the public, will provide our organization with a greater ability to make a positive impact on these children's lives."
The OMEGA members participating in the Mothers Day Campaign include BFS Convenience Stores, Chico Enterprises, DeFazio Oil, Go Mart Inc., Little General Stores, Mini Giants, One Stop, Par Mar Oil Co., Petersburg Oil Co., R.M. Roach & Sons, R.T. Rogers, Stop In Food Stores, Kanawha City Foodland and TWJ Inc.
OMEGA has raised more than $1 million since 2003 for charities that improve the health, safety and wellbeing of West Virginia children. "This effort not only gives back to the communities where our members live and work, but it demonstrates the philanthropic nature of our industry. This is a win for all involved: the children, our members and the public," said Vinyard.
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