LAKE COUNTY – Easter Seals Northern California is asking for support of an important fund that assists families who must travel out of county for pediatric medical services.

The Verna Morris Memorial Pediatric Transportation Fund was established by Easter Seals Northern California in 1996 to celebrate Verna's extensive volunteer work for the National Tuberous Sclerosis Association.

A major unmet need identified in Lake County was funding for transportation stipends to cover gas, bridge tolls, and parking fees for families traveling long distances in order to take their children to medical treatment and appointments.

Hundreds of families depended on these stipends to assist with their travel expenses to appointments at children's hospitals in San Francisco, Oakland and Sacramento as well as specialized pediatric services in Santa Rosa, Ukiah, Napa and Petaluma.

The requests for assistance during this economic recession, have increased beyond the ability of the Verna Morris Fund to help families.

This holiday season, Easter Seals asks that community members consider making a contribution to this fund.

To make a tax-deductible donation, please mail check to Verna Morris Fund, Easter Seals Northern California, 501 B N. Main St., Lakeport, CA 95453.

For more information call the Easter Seals Northern California Lakeport office at 263-3949, or visit the Easter Seals Web site at www.noca.easterseals.com.

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