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The Breathmobile® For Prescott Joseph Center!

January 24, 2009

A call for help from Tom Simpson

As you may remember the Seals Junior program has an affiliate in West Oakland called the Prescott-Joseph Center.  We provide coaching and equipment for their soccer program.  Last Summer many of you donated money and tickets to the children of Prescott-Joseph so that they could attend the Earthquakes - Galaxy game.  They haven't forgotten that generous gift.

The children of Prescott-Joseph are some of the most under-served and neglected children in California.  This is an extraordinarily poor community in material wealth but more so in emotional and physical health.  One of the biggest health problems the West Oakland children face is asthma.  Asthma is highly prevalent in poor communities because of allergens that provoke asthma in the homes of these children.

Dr. Washington Burns has taken the initiative to do something for these children.  Dr. Burns is a modern day saint.  He's tireless and has no limit to his generosity.  He's a Mississippi born black man who was born during very difficult times, but he has accomplished tremendous things in his career as an MD,a family member, a supporter of soccer and his support for the West Oakland Community.  He deserves the help of people who have the benefit of wealth and opportunity because he has no other purpose than to return that help to a community in great need.  

I know times are tough but if they're tough for you, imagine how much tougher they are for a forgotten community.  These kids get the dregs.  It's difficult to imagine without seeing it.  So, please, if you can, dig into your pockets and make a contribution.  If you reach the attached letter, Dr. Burns is asking for $20 from each donor.  He's using the money to fund a Breathmobile that aims at asthma as it's primary target.  However, getting children into a health program will do far more than just address the health focus.  As you will read, the Dr. Burns will not limit the use of the Breathmobile to benefit just the children of West Oakland.  Children in Berkeley, Emeryville and Bay View/ Hunter's point will benefit as well.  

The address for Prescott-Joseph is 920 Peralta Street,Oakland, Ca 94607.  If you send in something, please remind Dr. Burns that you are a member of the Seals Junior Seals. He'll appreciate knowing that.


Regards,

Tom Simpson