New Orleans-based Kalencom aids oil spill relief

Donates to animal rescue program

Kids Today Staff -- Kids Today, 6/1/2010 10:05:41 AM

NEW ORLEANS-Lifestyle company, Kalencom has always been an active supporter of the city of New Orleans, its home for over 35 years. When word reached Kalencom and its division Hadaki of the devastation of April's Gulf of Mexico oil spill on Louisana's wetlands and animal life, the companies immediately jumped into action. They put in place a plan to raise money for Audubon Nature Institute, which is coordinating the sea turtle marine mammal rehabilitation.

During the month of June, Kalencom and Hadaki will donate 10% of all sales to Audubon Nature Institute.

"Our company is no stranger to devastation having lost an entire warehouse as a result of Hurricane Katrina," said Monica Kalozdi, Kalencom/Hadaki owner. "We made the decision to return and rebuild our business in New Orleans because our ties to the city and state are extremely strong. It breaks our heart to see so much of our natural resources and animal life in jeopardy as a result of the oil spill, and we hope our June program will have an impact on saving the wildlife."

Kalencom is best known for its line of diaper bags that can double as totes for mom. The bags incorporate intricate detailing, high quality and affordable pricing.

The Hadaki line features a wide variety of accessories for teens, tweens and young professionals who realize that even utilitarian accessories can make a statement - from small wristlets, wallets and zip cases to messenger bags, backpacks and duffels.

Due to the timing of the spill, sea turtles will be most affected as this is the time of year when they migrate to Mexican beaches to nest. Kalencom/Hadaki's donation through the Audubon Nature Institute will go directly in support of the Louisiana Marine Mammal and Sea Turtle Rescue Program.

"We are grateful for companies such as Kalencom as through their generosity, we will be able to accelerate our efforts in this region and hopefully succeed in helping local animals through the Audubon Aquatic Center with assessment and treatment," said Laurie Conkerton, senior vice president for development, Audubon Nature Institute.

Recently the company revamped its production, and now all Kalencom and Hadaki products are manufactured in an eco-friendly manner and are free of phthalates, AZO, DEHP, DBP, BOP and other harmful chemicals.

Consumers can support Kalencom's efforts during June by visiting www.hadakishop.com to purchase Hadaki products and by purchasing Kalencom at any store or etailer.

For more information on Audubon Nature Institute, visit www.auduboninstitute.org.