Erie County Legislator Michael H. Ranzenhofer (R-Clarence) today announced that his District Office is participating in the 2004 Erie County Books for Kids Campaign. The goal of the campaign is to collect 70,000 new and gently used children's books countywide and distribute them to needy Western New York children.

     "Each time that we run the 'Books for Kids' campaign, we meet with great success, collecting thousands and thousands of books for children who need them," said Ranzenhofer. "One of the greatest gifts you can give to a child is the opportunity to read, and I'm proud to open up my office for donations to this important program."

     Books should be suitable for use by infants and children up to 12 years of age. Financial contributions are also accepted, and will be used towards the purchase of new books, particularly Braille, multicultural and large-print books for children with special needs.

      New and slightly used books, along with cash donations, can be dropped off at Legislator Ranzenhofer's District Office, located at 8860 Main Street, Suite 201A (across from Jubilee Markets), through March 31. All checks should be made payable to "Books for Kids/Project Flight."

      For further information regarding the 2004 Erie County Books for Kids Campaign, please contact Legislator Ranzenhofer's District Office at 631-8695.