'CHECK OUT FOR CHILDREN'

From Sheraton Surabaya

Each guest upon checking out from Sheraton Hotels & Resorts around the world, are asked voluntarily to support one of the world largest fund raising programs to help children.

Sheraton has joined "Check Out for Children", UNICEF's (United Nations Children's Fund) program by encouraging the guests to allow them to include a donation of US$ 1,- (or in its local currency) in their room bill.

In Surabaya, the Sheraton Surabaya Hotel Towers have raised Rp. 176,179,162,- in total up to November 2000. Today at the hotel at 17.30 hrs in Daha Room, the General Manager of Sheraton Surabaya Hotel & Towers, Mr. Tim Steckbeck is handing over the fund to Mr. Rolf Carriere, Representative UNICEF Indonesia.

Mr. Carriere in his gratitude stated, "This is a fantastic effort. We would like to thank Sheraton and their guests who have helped us to make this happen. In fact, in 1998 there are more than 11 million children under the age of five died. It means that under 5 mortality rate in 1998 is 86 per 1,000 live birth. Among them die because of preventable diseases including those 6 immunizable diseases. It is sad and we shall continue to work together to support this program."

"We care a lot for children all over the world and we have been receiving many warm responses from our guests on this program. It is good for us to see the guests react toward this charity and we are very pleased that we are able to deliver some valuable things to the needy", stated Mr. Tim Steckbeck, the General Manager of Sheraton Surabaya Hotel & Towers.

Check Out For Children from Sheraton all over the world has contributed to the miraculous progress made in recent years. The program has raised over US$ 4.3 million and the fund has been used for immunization, which has saved the lives of more than 252,000 children in developing countries. It costs US$ 17.00 to immunize a child against the six main childhood diseases (polio, diphteria, tetanus, pertusis, tuberculosis, measles).

Sheraton, the largest brand of Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc., has more than 375 hotels in 67 countries. Starwood, through its St. Regis, Luxury Collection, Westin, Sheraton, Four Points and W brands, is one of the leading hotel and leisure companies in the world with more than 700 hotels in 80 countries and 130,000 employees at its owned and managed properties.