Dec. 18, 2004

WACO, Texas - The Baylor Lady Bears participated in Adopt an Angel for Compassion Ministries in Waco Friday, bringing holiday cheer and Christmas gifts to a less fortunate family.

The Lady Bears collected money, shopped and wrapped presents for the family. The team delivered the presents to the family's Waco home and visited with the mother, Tammy, and her three children, Jodi, Danielle and Shane.

Compassion Ministries is a transitional home for struggling families who might be homeless without the six-month program that is designed to help them get back on their feet. The head of the family is required to have a full-time job within 30 days of entering the program. Based on a low nominal scale and their income, they must pay rent and utilities to Compassion. Upon graduation from the program, the family receives half of that money back to pay for rent and utility deposits on their new home.

Tammy recently completed the program, but is still connected with Compassion Ministries. Compassion is monitoring her progress for the next six months, ensuring that she remains independent.

"I couldn't have done this for my children," she said. "They (Lady Bears) have no idea what this means to us."

For more information on community relations, please contact Athletic Marketing at 710-3073.