Contact: Fred Martin, Children's Hunger Fund, 818-744-6747, info@childrenshungerfund.org
LOS ANGELES, April 29 /Christian Newswire/ -- Children's Hunger Fund (CHF) hosted The Children's Champion Award Celebration Banquet Sunday night at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library in Simi Valley, California.
With giant chimes hung around the hall, the banquet's theme, "Resonate", rang on in the minds of guests. "We want our guests to understand their true impact," said Dave Phillips, CHF President, "and how their support, no matter how big or how small, will cause a reverberation that can impact more children with food, care, and the love of God."
The ceremony, hosted by nationally known Pastor and author, Francis Chan, honored those who serve needy children worldwide. The message of James, that true religion is seen in the loving care of orphans, was clear.
Jim Daly, President and CEO of Focus On The Family, received the Children's Champion Award (CCA) for his work to strengthen families and communities by encouraging care for orphans and foster children. Actor Candace Cameron Bure, a mom and regular listener to the Focus broadcast presented the award.
Singer Rebecca St. James presented the Children's Champion Award to Steven Curtis and Mary Beth Chapman for their adoption-focused foundation, Show Hope. In a sweetly emotional acceptance speech Mary Beth shared her desire to empty all the orphan beds in the world.
Sue Hagen of Dole Food Company and Henry Morita of Nestlé USA were honored for connecting CHF with the generosity and resources of their respective companies.
The Widow's Mite Award, an honor developed to recognize young people who show generosity to poor children, was given to Simi Valley teen, Samantha Neher. Unlike the overspending teens on MTV's "My Super Sweet 16", Samantha asked her 16th birthday party guests to donate to CHF instead of gifts.
As special surprise to USANA Health Sciences founder Dr. Myron Wentz, Chan announced that a medical clinic under construction in Malawi will bear his name.
SFC Antonio Giuliano, the lead soloist for the U.S. Army Band gave an incredible performance.
Proceeds from the fundraiser will provide support to CHF's Children's Champion Initiative, expanding their programs to children in need.
USANA Health Sciences was the lead sponsor of the banquet. Regency Lighting provided significant funding. Other sponsors included McCormick Consulting Group, P.A.C. Properties, Anita G. Inc., Shepherd of the Hills Church, Central Parking System, World Magazine, Nestlé USA, and California National Bank.
Views and opinions expressed by CHF are not necessarily shared by the Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation.
