The Coalition for the Protection of Children is offering the community a unique opportunity to help families in need.

According to the 2000 Census, 30 percent of all Bermuda households are characterised as ?poor? ? earning less than $36,000 per year.

In an effort to alleviate the situation, the Coalition is encouraging members of the community to ?adopt? a family in need of help.

Coalition chairperson Sheelagh Cooper said those who can afford to help with everyday things like food are encouraged to participate, but added that it was more than just offering financial help.

?We put them in touch with each other and in a way it breaks down barriers that exist in the community,? she said.

Mrs. Cooper said families also had the opportunity to offer emotional support by interacting with these families and doing things together.

?It?s also an opportunity for children from these wealthier families to become little philanthropists in their own right,? she said.

Due to the tremendous response from the public following a newspaper story concerning children going to school hungry, Mrs. Cooper said the Coalition was now encouraging members of the community to donate money towards breakfast vouchers.

?Those who want to help can donate cash, or they can go to any supermarket and buy a food voucher,? she said.