LOS ANGELES WORLD AIRPORTS, CENTINELA HOSPITAL, PEOPLE ASSISTING THE HOMELESS JOIN TO PROVIDE SPECIAL HOLIDAY FOR HOMELESS FAMILIES

(Los Angeles, California -- December 20, 2002) Los Angeles World Airports (LAWA), Centinela Hospital, and People Assisting the Homeless (PATH) have joined together to provide a special holiday for 50 homeless children ranging in age from four to 14. Toys and clothing donated by LAWA employees will be given to the families at a party hosted by Centinela Hospital on Friday, Dec. 20.

"It has been a very difficult year for many, and we are pleased to partner with such organizations as Centinela Hospital and PATH to make this holiday season a little more special," said Lydia H. Kennard, executive director of LAWA, which owns and operates four airports: Los Angeles International, Ontario International, Palmdale Regional and Van Nuys.

PATH, founded in 1984, is a non-profit community organization whose mission is to break the cycle of homelessness by empowering homeless people with tools for self-sufficiency. PATH provides services that assist homeless people to find work, save money, secure housing, and empower their lives. PATH serves homeless individuals and families at several sites throughout Los Angeles County and is scheduled to open a center in Inglewood in 2004.

"The holiday season is sometimes the most difficult time for homeless families," said Joel John Roberts, PATH executive director. "Community efforts such as this truly make a difference."

Founded in 1924, Centinela Hospital is a 370-bed, full-service, acute-care medical center. Centinela is home to the Tommy Lasorda Heart Institute and is the official hospital of the Los Angeles Dodgers, Lakers, Clippers and Avengers, as well as the Long Beach Ice Dogs.

"We are very pleased to be able to give back to our community and help those less fortunate this holiday season," said Michael Rembis, Centinela Hospital chief executive officer.