THE BRIANNA FUND FOR CHILDREN WITH PHYSICAL DISABILITIES’ 10TH ANNUAL

DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING GOSPEL BENEFIT CONCERT: “GIFT OF THE SPIRIT”

Springfield, Massachusetts-- The Brianna Fund for Children with Physical Disabilities, established in October 1998 presents its 10th annual gospel benefit concert on Saturday, January 19, 2008 beginning at 6:00pm at Evangelical Covenant Church, 915 Plumtree Road. As usual, you are in for a hand clapping, foot stomping, down-home, hallelujah good time. This year’s concert, “Gifts of the Spirit” will deliver no less than the ultimate best in Gospel Praise.

The Brianna Fund was established to assist children with physical disabilities by eliminating barriers of access to community resources. By providing necessary resources to solve pressing mobility issues, children with physical disabilities can enhance their capacity for living a full and productive life, and are able to participate in all aspects of community life.

Inspired by Brianna Johnson, who was born with Osteogenesis Imperfecta, a rare genetic condition that leads to severe and painful fractures, the organization has donated over $100,000 since its inception enabling over 25 families to be blessed with funding. What started out as one family raising funds for a van with a wheel chair lift has turned into a collaborative effort to help other children in the community with similar situations.

The families of children from birth to 22 years of age who have a physical disability, which specifically relates to mobility and access, are eligible to receive funding assistance.

The Brianna Fund is operated under the auspices of the Partners for a Healthier Community. This group will assist the Brianna Fund in administering funds to children and their families in the Greater Springfield area.