Adapted from a program that has already been very successful in Canada, the �Adopt-a-Shelter� initiative is based on the very simple fact that luxury hotels are constantly disposing of items that can be of use to shelters.  According to Ann Layton, Vice President of Public Affairs and Communications for Fairmont, �We have 30,000 rooms in 70 hotels across North America, which means that on any given day we have a lot of things that are suitable for donation.  This program simply puts a framework in place that lets our hotels contribute to the community, and make a meaningful difference to families in need.�

The program is an ongoing relationship between each hotel and their �adopted� shelter.  In addition to providing much-needed goods for the shelter itself, the hotels will assist women as they enter �second stage� housing and attempt to begin new lives away from the abusive relationship. �Often this is the most difficult time for mothers, as they leave the shelter with nothing.  They get apartments but their children are sleeping on the floor.  We are in a good position to provide much needed beds and other furniture,� adds Layton. 

In order to help stop violence at the source, Fairmont Hotels & Resorts will also be making a cash donation to VDay, to support violence prevention and education programs.  Willa Shalit, Executive Director of VDay says, �it is important for high profile companies like Fairmont to take a stand on the issue of domestic violence. This is a perfect example of a new approach to philanthropy, as companies donate what makes logical sense for them. VDay is proud to be working with Fairmont Hotels & Resorts on this important project.�

Fairmont Hotels & Resorts will be holding launch events in major cities across North America in time for Mother�s Day, traditionally a very difficult time for women in shelters.

�Our employees have embraced the idea with enthusiasm and are already going above and beyond the minimum requirements of the program,� adds Layton.  �From Banff to Bermuda, and from Boston to Maui, our properties are saving warehouses full of goods for delivery.  It will be an exciting kick-off to our long-term program.�

Fairmont Hotels & Resorts is the largest operator of luxury hotels in North America, with 37 hotels and over 18,000 rooms.  Fairmont�s sister company, Delta Hotels, is a first class hotel company with 39 hotels and 12,088 rooms, mainly in Canada.  Both brands will be participating in the �Adopt a Shelter� initiative.