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Go ahead, do something good, make it happen for 'Kidzday'

If you read these pages in search of an out-of-the-ordinary weekend activity, here it is: Go to your nearest department store, buy a child's outfit, a toy, or school supplies and take it to the nearest collection center for the Kidzday Christmas party, to be held Saturday, Dec. 10 at the stadium of the National College of Physical Education in Taichung.

For the past two years, the American Chamber of Commerce in Taichung (AmCham) has organized a huge Christmas party for orphaned and disadvantaged kids living in the Taichung area. Last year's party saw 2,000 kids celebrate a day they otherwise wouldn't have with a banquet, popular entertainers such as the cast of YoYo TV, arts, crafts, games and of course a box of gifts for each of them to take home.

Last year some NT$3 million was raised. It was more than enough to throw a party for the kids and the rest went towards much-needed renovations at the Christian Herald Orphanage in Taichung City.

This year, organizers have invited 3,000 orphaned and disadvantaged kids from all over Taiwan and need gifts and contributions to make the party as successful as it was last year. Unlike years past, where kids took home a box of gifts, this year the boxes will be delivered directly to the children' s homes.

AmCham is also aiming to raise NT$15 million over the next 12 months, which will be used on renovation projects at several children's homes island-wide.

To make the party and the renovations happen, AmCham is asking for both corporate contributions and volunteers.

Besides donating a new toy, clothes or school supplies, if you'd like to volunteer your time to help promote the event, or even help out at the event itself, call the organizers at (0958) 258 194, or write to helpthekidz@gmail.com. Corporate sponsors are being asked to procure certain items for the event, from food and soft drinks, to bus fare, stadium fees, sound equipment and insurance.

In the Taipei area, collection points for toys and gifts are the Red Cross, located at 2F, 20, Xinsheng S Rd, Sec 3, Taipei (台北市新生南路三段20號二樓) and The Frying Scotsman, located at 393, Xinyi Rd, Sec 4 (台北市信義路四段393號). Call the organizers for collection points elsewhere.

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