CARSON CITY, NV -- Most everyone in communities across the U.S. has been affected somehow by the economy -- and the children are no exception. Winston and Shannon Seymour, owners of Atomic Stone in Cason City, NV, point out that the average age of a homeless person is nine, and they were shocked when they learned of the number of Carson City children that were going to bed hungry at night. "The ache in their stomachs was immense, and their hearts were heavy as they thought of these young, local children going without the nourishment their body's need," Atomic Stone stated.

That is when the Seymour's discovered "Food for Thought," a local non-profit 501(c)(3) public charity which discreetly provides a food bag each weekend for nearly 600 Carson City schoolchildren who might otherwise go hungry. Most of these children do not have access to a kitchen or a means to prepare food, so the food that is sent home is carefully planned to meet their nutritional needs while being easy to prepare.

With this amazing program already in place, Winston decided to donate what he does best -- a beautiful, custom granite kitchen. Winston and Shannon are selling raffle tickets for $20 each and every penny goes directly to Food for Thought. The winner will receive up to three slabs worth of countertops and backsplashes fabricated and installed by Atomic Stone, complete with the removal of their existing counters, a new sink and faucet installed and plumbed, a new light fixture and a free consultation with a certified interior designer.

Their motto, "We don't just do this for a living, we do it for a passion" certainly describes this amazing fund raising event. It is this passion that has enlisted friends and other local business owners to jump in and participate. The Seymours applaud the people who have volunteered their help in this, most of them without even being asked. Bedrosians Tile has donated three beautiful granite slabs; Catzeye graphics designed the raffle tickets, fliers and Web page; Tech Plumbing will be installing the new plumbing fixtures; Lisa Moore of Mindful Design has donated design consultation; Monarch Direct provided the printing; Ferguson Plumbing has donated a new kitchen sink and faucet; Cabinet and Lighting Supply has donated a new light fixture; and the Carson City Chamber of Commerce has given its help and support. The selflessness of these individuals is both astounding and inspiring. "It's this community coming together that will help each citizen, including the children, to survive this economy," Atomic Stone stated.

The winning raffle ticket will be pulled September 16 at 5:00 at Red's 395 in Carson City during the Chamber of Commerce monthly mixer. Purchasers need not be present to win. Tickets are on sale at the Carson City Chamber of Commerce, Bedrosians Tile in Sparks, Atomic Stone in Carson City or online at www.atomicstonenevada.com/raffle.html. Donations may also be made directly to Food for Thought through its Web site at www.nvfoodforthought.org. Donations of time are also graciously accepted.