Obama Campaign Press Release - Obama Campaign to Launch Charitable Intiatives at Weekend Events

Campaign encourages supporters to give back to community at rallies

Chicago, IL - The Obama for America campaign today announced that it would kick off community service events to benefit charitable organizations at each of the events on this weekend's tour with the Obamas and special guest Oprah Winfrey. The campaign is encouraging supporters to bring charitable goods for collection at the rallies or to donate those goods at local field offices. This week, Obama issued a "Call to Serve" and detailed his commitment to making national service a cause of his presidency in a policy address in Mt. Vernon, Iowa.

"As we work everyday to organize our way to victory, it's important that our campaign give back to the community," said campaign manager David Plouffe. "We've created a powerful grassroots base in the early states and across the country, and we believe asking our supporters to contribute a little will make a big difference for those in need."

Information on the charitable drives are below:

Iowa

Toys for Tots Drive Collection centers will be located at both the Des Moines and Cedar Rapids rally with the Obamas and Oprah Winfrey. New, unwrapped toys will also be collected through December 17 at each of the 37 Obama campaign field offices across Iowa.

Des Moines

Hy-Vee Hall B

730 3rd St

Des Moines, IA 50309

Cedar Rapids

US Cellular Center

370 1st Ave. NE

Cedar Rapids, IA

South Carolina

H.O.P.E. for the Holidays Canned Good and Coat Drive

When: 12:30-2:30 PM

Where: Williams-Brice Stadium, 1127 George Rivers Blvd., Columbia, SC

New Hampshire

Food for the Hungry Drive Collection centers will be available at the Manchester rally. Attendees are encouraged to bring non-perishable items, with a suggested donation of 2 canned goods.

The Verizon Wireless Arena

555 Elm Street

Manchester, NH 0310