FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla., Oct. 4, 2011 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- John Mattera, in conjunction with renowned New York City graffiti artist John "Crash" Matos and the co-sponsoring of Tumi, have received praise for their continuous raising of charitable funds to help Indian children that were born into brothels. To date, funds have been allocated to help build educational, vocational and housing centers for the children of Songachi and their mothers.
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The financial dedication of John Mattera, founder of The Mattera Foundation, has made it possible for thirty-three American women to travel to India and help with the creation of a safe haven. The main focus is to build a school, vocation center and home where children will have the opportunity to attend school and their mothers will be re-educated through the vocational program.
"Unfortunately these children were born into this lifestyle and have fallen victim to hardships most of us will never know. We want to provide them with the resources to better their lives," said John Mattera.
"We want to thank all of those who had a part in giving so that this new home and school can be built. Lives will be radically changed because of what John Mattera and his foundation have done," said Reverend Tim Adour.
Also playing a vital role in the success of the mission is the travel accessory company Tumi. Tumi has partnered with artist, John "Crash" Matos to create a limited edition travel collection. Tumi has generously donated iPhone covers, a wheeled case, and one limited-edition Crash-designed Tumi Tag luggage piece that was auctioned off to support the cause.
About The Mattera Foundation:
John Mattera founded The Mattera Foundation in 2004. The Mission of The Mattera Foundation is to strengthen the community through bringing good people and good causes together to help ensure both the excellent stewardship of donor funds and the wise investment of grants in the communities that we serve. The Mattera Foundation puts the joy back in giving. For more about The Mattera Foundation, visit www.TheMatteraFoundation.org
About John "Crash" Matos
Born in the Bronx, New York, famous graffiti artist John "Crash" Matos began spray painting New York City trains. He was first noticed through his murals on subway cars and buildings, he is now regarded as a pioneer of the Graffiti art movement. His art can be seen at various museums across the world.
About the Cause
Songachi is one of the largest red-light districts in Asia. It is an area with several hundred multi-story brothels. Born Into Brothel's: Calcutta's Red Light Kids is a 2004 American documentary film about the children of prostitutes in Songachi, Kolkata's red light district.
