Compassion International, a long-term child development ministry, received a $250,000 check today from Kerusso, an apparel and gift company. The check presentation took place at the CBA International Christian Retail Show in Denver.

In January, Kerusso began a campaign to raise $500,000 for Compassion International by selling 2 million Live for Him red wristbands. In seven months, Kerusso has reached half that goal, selling 1 million wristbands and bringing in $250,000 to fund programs for children around the world.

Selling at a faster rate than the popular "What Would Jesus Do?" bracelets, the Live for Him red wristbands have been purchased by churches and youth groups in the United States as well as other countries.

In accepting the gift, Dr. Wess Stafford, President and CEO of Compassion International said, "It is an honor to accept this check from our friends at Kerusso. I am overwhelmed by the generosity of those who have helped make this campaign a success. This is an extraordinary effort that will impact the next generation of leaders around the world."

The wristbands will benefit children in need around the world through Compassion's Child Sponsorship Program. Compassion ministers to more than 678,000 children in 23 countries around the world; the money will help fund physical, social, economic and spiritual development programs. 

"The Live for Him red wristband project is a great way for Christians to make a personal statement of faith in Jesus Christ. Presenting this check to Compassion International today represents the numerous people around the world that are committed to living out their faith, " said Chris Rainey, Kerusso's Marketing Director.

Compassion International is one of the nation's largest and fastest growing child development organizations, working with more than 65 denominations and many indigenous church partners in Africa, Asia, Central and South America and the Caribbean. Since 1952, Compassion has touched the lives of more than a million children. For information about sponsoring a child, call (800) 336-7676, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. MT.

For more information on the Live for Him red wristband project, visit www.kerusso.com. Live for Him wristbands are available to purchase from local Christian retail stores or online at kerusso.com.