"SUCCESS IS IN THE BAG!" HANDBAG DONATION DRIVE

"Women are most successful when they feel beautiful, I hope this gift inspires women to go out and rule the world" notes Freda Kunin, owner of FredaLA.com, a web-based accessories company.

Putting that philosophy into action, FredaLA.com is donating work-appropriate handbags to all clients of Chrysalis, a California-based non-profit organization, whose aim is to help economically disadvantaged and homeless individuals become self-sufficient through job opportunities.

To donate handbags: 1.Mail new or gently used handbags with your name and email address to: FredaLA.COM (Attn: Success) 440 Seaton Street, 3rd Floor Los Angeles, CA 90013, USA. FredaLA can not cover the cost of shipping. 2. Be sure to include your information so we can send you your gift certificate codes. We will need your name and email address if you prefer your gift certificate codes emailed to you. (Please be sure to add CustomerCare@FredaLA.COM to your allowed list of emails to be certain you will receive your codes.) If you would like your gift certificate codes mailed to you via regular mail, please include your mailing address. 3. No limit to the number of bags donated, however merchandise coupons are limited to 1 per household and may not be combined. One coupon can be used per order. 4. Please allow 4 to 8 weeks for processing of your donation and emailing or mailing your gift certificate codes. 5. Bags collected through the program are donated to Chrysalis, helping economically disadvantaged and homeless individuals become self-sufficient through job opportunities. 6. For further information please contact us at CustomerCare@FredaLA.COM or at (213) 626-1233.

Since opening their doors in 1984, Chrysalis has helped more than 30,000 individuals change their lives through jobs. Their three main centers are located on Skid Row in Downtown Los Angeles, Santa Monica and in the Pacoima area of the San Fernando Valley, where homelessness and pockets of poverty are most pervasive.

There is no limit to the number of bags you may donate to the program, however merchandise coupon codes are limited to 1 (one) $20 merchandise only coupon code per household and may not be combined. Coupon codes are redeemable for merchandise only. All new and used bags collected through the program will be donated to the female clients of Chrysalis.

Chrysalis assists over 2,500 people each year through employment programs and services. Last year, 1,564 clients were successfully employed (63% in an outside position and 37% through Chrysalis Enterprises, their transitional job program). An incredible 80% of clients who complete their program gain employment, with the help of over 320 volunteers.

A handbag – a necessity to most, but a luxury tothose less fortunate - can really help increase a woman’s confidence on the interview and on the job, particularly if they haven’t worked for many years,” states Freda Kunin, adding, “Walking into the workplace wearing a fashionable and smart accessory means you are on at the very least a par with the other women, which is vital when re-establishing yourself in the workplace.”

“Chrysalis helps individuals with multiple barriers to employment gain the self confidence they need to find a job. Having a nice bag to take on a job interview provides our clients with that extra boost of confidence and dignity.” says Mark Loranger, Chrysalis CEO.

To donate handbags: Mail new or gently used handbags with your name and email address to: FredaLA.COM (Attn: Success) 440 Seaton Street., Third Floor, Los Angeles, CA 90013, USA. You may donate as many bags as you like; however, you will be sent only one (1) $20 merchandise-credit Gift Donation Codes per household. Gift Donation Codes will be sent via email or regular mail. Gift Donation Codes have no cash value, may not be combined with other Gift Donation Codes, percent or dollar-off coupon codes, free shipping or other promotions. Bags collected through the program are donated to Chrysalis, helping economically disadvantaged and homeless individuals become self-sufficient through job opportunities. FredaLA.COM can not cover the cost of shipping. Please allow 4-8 weeks for processing of your donation and receipt of your Gift Donation Codes.

Hi Freda ... I just read about your worthwhile cause and plan to send you a bunch of gently used bags for your donation drive. It's amazing to think that there are some of us who are not able to buy a bag for themselves, especially when we don't think twice about buying a new one. My husband jokes that I never met a handbag I didn't like:-) I read him the blurb in Ladies Home Journal and his eyes teared up. I will be sending the bags to you this week. I honestly do not want anything in return so please send the merchandise coupons to someone who needs them. Take care and Happy Valentine's Day.
Caren Carpenter, Needham, Massachusetts