Carlson Hotels Worldwide and the American Red Cross worked together to provide more than 1,900 activity bags to children displaced by Hurricane Ike in the Houston area. The tote bags contained a fun activity book, colored pencils, stickers, sunglasses or goggles.

"We wanted to provide a multi-purpose tote bag with some fun items that can help bring cheer to the kids who may be in temporary shelters and without some of their prized possessions," said Baron Carr, vice president of Brand Marketing for Carlson Hotels Worldwide, who donated the bags on behalf of their Radisson Hotels & Resorts and Country Inns & Suites By Carlson brands.

"The American Red Cross is where neighbors can help neighbors during their time of need" said Lauri Rhinehart, vice president of Development Operations for the American Red Cross. "We are thankful for the support of Carlson Hotels Worldwide. Their compassion and generosity helped put smiles on the faces of children and, in turn, their families."

The American Red Cross continues providing relief to tens of thousands of people who were temporarily and permanently displaced by Hurricane Ike when it made landfall in Texas last month. More than 2,400 bags were distributed at a San Antonio shelter to children displaced by the hurricane through a partnership with the local Red Cross chapter.

The bag donation is part of a larger effort by Carlson Hotels Worldwide to not only provide relief for hurricane victims, but to reach out to community groups including the YMCA, Big Brothers/Big Sisters, the Urban League, Kids In Need and Latina youth. The overall national donation effort taking place through the end of the year is valued at more than $500,000.

(30)