VARIETY - The Children's Charity of Southern California and Westfield Topanga to Host Santa Walk 2012 this Sunday, Dec. 2

Hundreds of Santa-Suited Participants Will Walk this Sunday To Support Children with Mobility Challenges

(LOS ANGELES) Nov. 27, 2012 – On Sunday, Dec. 2, hundreds of red-suited Santas will fill the Westfield Topanga mall to walk and raise money in support of children with mobility challenges at Santa Walk 2012.

The event, now in its third year, is organized by Variety – the Children’s Charity of Southern California, which provides lifesaving support for disabled, abused, physically-challenged and underprivileged children throughout Southern California. All proceeds raised from Santa Walk 2012 will benefit Variety’s “Kids on the Go” program, which provides funding for walkers, wheelchairs, specially-designed adaptive bikes, therapeutic strollers and other mobility equipment to families in need.

The walk will benefit children like five-year-old Valerie of South Central Los Angeles, who suffers from Osteogenesis Imperfecta (OI), a genetic bone disorder also known as “brittle bone disease.” To ride a bike with her kindergarten classmates, Valerie needs an adaptive tricycle that will accommodate her height and allow her to utilize both her arms and legs to pedal. At the conclusion of this year’s event, Variety will present Valerie with her very own adaptive tricycle.

“Bike rides and trips to the park are staples of childhood that kids with disabilities want to experience. By providing children with mobility equipment, they become more mobile, gain confidence, independence and the chance to safely and actively join in the life of their community,” said Elizabeth O’Neil, executive director of Variety – the Children’s Charity of Southern California. “We’re grateful to Westfield for once again hosting Santa Walk and we invite anyone interested in being a Claus-for-a-cause to join us at Westfield Topanga for a festive and inspiring day.”

“Westfield Topanga is proud to once again host Santa Walk and support Variety – the Children’s Charity of Southern California.  It’s a great way to get into the holiday spirit, by supporting a worthy cause and getting your holiday shopping done with special savings for Santa Walk participants,” said Anthony Sion, director marketing, Westfield Topanga.

Many of Westfield Topanga’s retailers will offer Santa Walk participants discounts ranging from five to twenty percent on purchases the day of the event.  Santa Walk 2012 is open to children and adults of all ages. All registered participants will receive a complete five-piece Santa suit and a chance to win exciting prizes, and the first 100 participants to register will also enjoy a complimentary breakfast.  Radio Disney AM110 will provide entertainment throughout the event with prizes and interaction for the whole family, joined by costumed characters such as Elf from Rise of the Guradians , Alvin from Alvin and the Chipmunks, Erik and Mumble from Happy Feet, and the Penguin from Madagascar 3.  In addition, the Ochoa Boyz will be performing and signing autographs for all participants.  Santa Walk 2012 runs from 9 a.m. – noon on Sunday, Dec. 2, and cost for participation is $25 for adults, and $15 for children and students.  To register online and get more information about the event visitwww.SantaWalk2012.com.

###

About Variety – the Children’s Charity of Southern California:

Variety – the Children’s Charity of Southern California, founded in 1941, is a 501(c)3 organization made up of men and women primarily in the entertainment industry who raise the much-needed funds to provide lifesaving support for disabled, abused, physically-challenged and underprivileged children in the Southern California community. The Southern California chapter is part of a worldwide network, Variety International. Founded in 1928, Variety the Children’s Charity has raised over $1.7 billion to aid special needs children worldwide. For more information please visit www.varietysocal.org

About Westfield Topanga:

Westfield Topanga is located in the heart of LA’s San Fernando Valley serving the families and young professionals of its extremely diverse trade area. As the only center in the US with a Target, Nordstrom, and Neiman Marcus under one roof, as well as the area’s best collection of specialty retailers, the center is a true power shopping destination providing distinct experiences and occasions for each shopper. With regionally inspired architecture, fun family friendly activities, top-rate amenities, as well as an array of dining offerings, Westfield Topanga is a truly flagship destination for real-life to luxury goods. For a complete holiday event schedule visit:http://www.facebook.com/westfieldtopanga