The Hasbro Children's Foundation is establishing the fund in partnership with the September 11th Fund, created by the New York Community Trust and the United Way. The purpose of the September 11th Children's Fund is to support the surviving children of flight attendants, pilots and passengers on the airplanes that crashed; the children of the clerical workers, secretaries, security guards and others who were lost at the World Trade Center and the Pentagon; the children of fire, police and rescue workers who gave their lives so that others may be saved; and children affected who reside in the nearby New York City and Washington, D.C. neighborhoods that have been devastated.

"As we look to the future of the children who have suffered the loss of a parent and the trauma of these horrible events, it is critical that we support their emotional, mental and physical health," said Ellie Block, Chairman of the Hasbro Children's Foundation.

"We are grateful that we are able make a contribution during this time of world crisis," said Alan G. Hassenfeld, Hasbro's Chairman and CEO. "We are certain that other foundations, businesses and individuals will do their part in contributing to the September 11th Children's Fund, and to other worthwhile organizations that are providing relief."

The September 11th Children's Fund will go to support the long-term needs of these children, such as specialized bereavement, grief counseling and tutoring services. Such long-term support is most often overlooked in emergency relief efforts.

"The loss of a parent is a profound grief, one that will be with the child forever. Some children will be orphaned. They will all need the opportunity to heal. It is our hope that our funds will inspire others to give so that the September 11th Children's Fund can provide assistance to the thousands of children who will need these services," said Mrs. Block.

To make a donation to the September 11th Children's Fund, make checks payable to Community Funds Inc./SEPTEMBER 11th CHILDREN'S FUND. Checks should be sent to New York Community Trust, Two Park Avenue, New York, New York 10016.

The Mission of the Hasbro Children's Foundation is to improve the emotional, mental and physical well being of children, pre-birth through age 12, throughout the United States.

The Foundation identifies and supports innovative direct-service programs that promote family and community involvement in the healthy development of all children. The Foundation is particularly interested in programs that give disadvantaged children the opportunity to achieve their potential; to feel appreciated and to value others; and to experience play, learning, hope and joy.