Baskets piling up for NCP's 'Snowflake Basket Auction'

Niagara Cerebral Palsy is holding its fifth annual "Snowflake Basket Auction," the proceeds of which benefit the vital programs and services provided to developmentally disabled individuals and their families. The event is March 21, from 4-8 p.m., and March 22, from noon to 5 p.m., at the Niagara Falls Elk Lodge, 1805 Fashion Outlet Blvd.

All proceeds go directly to programs and services, which help more than 4,000 individuals each year. In the past, funds raised have been used to purchase teaching materials for the preschool; upgrade classroom computer software, therapeutic equipment (including swings, sensory chairs and rooms); and upgrade NCP's group homes.

"The items we have been able to obtain with the proceeds of the auction have helped so many individuals," said John Reardon, NCP executive director/CEO, "Without the resources the auction generates, we wouldn't have these terrific items available to our participants."

With cuts from Albany looming, fundraisers like the "Snowflake Basket Auction" are more important than ever for NCP. "Over the past several years, our state funding for the vital services we provide for children, adults, and families has been greatly reduced," Reardon said. "The wonderful support from our community through our fundraisers greatly helps our agency bridge the funding gap we face."

The "Snowflake Basket Auction" features a themed basket auction as well as a big-ticket raffle promoted with pre-event ticket sales. Anyone interested in sponsoring or donating items for use in the basket auction or the big ticket or premium item raffle can contact Cheryl Seelbinder at 716-297-0798, ext. 134. Donations can be picked up or mailed to Niagara Cerebral Palsy, Attn: Basket Auction, 9812 Lockport Road, Niagara Falls, NY 14304.

Niagara Cerebral Palsy is a nonprofit corporation, delivering innovative, quality services to individuals with disabilities. NCP offers a full range of services, including 24-hour residential care; in-home respite; service coordination; independent living apartments; day programs; dental, audiology and podiatry clinics; occupational and physical therapy; supported employment; and preschool and early childhood special education. All services are individualized based on the needs and goals of the individual and his/her family.

For more information about the "Snowflake Basket Auction" or NCP, contact Katharine Kirchmeyer at 716-297-0798, ext. 173, or [email protected], or visit the NCP website at www.niagaracp.org.