Spartanburg Interfaith Hospitality Network Receives Fujikura Foundation Grant

23/02/2010

Spartanburg, SC - AFL announces that the Spartanburg Interfaith Hospitality Network (SPIHN) received a $5,000 Fujikura Foundation grant to support its transportation program. SPIHN is dedicated to providing shelter, food, and support services for local homeless families by bringing together faith communities, volunteers and social service agencies. As families enter the program, SPIHN provides a means of transporting families to and from overnight accommodations to social services appointments, to schools or day care, job interviews for parents, doctor appointments, and other areas as needed.

"As families continue to struggle with the downturn in the economy, homeless families are on the rise," said Corie Culp, community relations manager for AFL. "SPIHN provides an opportunity for families to stay together while building a new foundation for their lives. AFL is pleased to contribute to the well being of local families during a great time of need."

At least 50% of over 500 homeless citizens in Spartanburg County at any given time are families, with 30% being children.

"By providing this important tool, SPIHN is further enhancing the ability of the families to become independent and self-sufficient which in turn benefits the community as a whole," said Carolyn Linebarger, Executive Director for SPIHN. "Children are in school, parents are seeking needed resources and, ultimately, goals for leaving the state of homelessness are reached."

For additional information on AFL and the Fujikura Foundation, visit www.AFLglobal.com.

About AFL
AFL is an industry leader in providing fiber optic products, engineering expertise and integrated services to the Electric Utility, Broadband, Telco, OEM, Private Network and Wireless markets. It has operations in the U.S., Mexico and the U.K. AFL is a division of Fujikura Ltd. of Japan.

About Fujikura Foundation
With a commitment to being an exemplary corporate citizen for the communities in which we operate, America Fujikura Ltd., parent company to AFL and AFL Network Services, has established a Foundation that focuses on four Areas of Opportunity supporting families, education, the environment and community partnerships. In keeping with both our current corporate strategies and principles, Fujikura Foundation is providing monetary contributions and volunteer opportunities so that we can give back to the communities who have made our existence possible. For additional information, visit www.AFLglobal.com.

Contacts  
 
Corie Culp, Public Relations Manager
AFL
864.433.5409
corie.culp@aflglobal.com