In 2005, Jimmy Barbarino was diagnosed with a brain tumor and he was given 4 to 6 years to live. Through non-invasive procedures, his doctors have been able to contain the tumor; however, Jimmy still suffers from seizures due to effects of the tumor. Nevertheless, the Barbarinos are optimistic that the success of the containment will enable Jimmy to provide a lifetime of memories to his daughters.

Several years ago, as part of a senior project, Seneca Valley student Caitlyn Elser approached the Barbarino family with the idea of starting a fundraising campaign to help them secure a home through Habitat for Humanity. The Barbarinos met the qualifications for a Habitat for Humanity home, but there were several families ahead of them on the waiting list. Caitlyn knew that the Barbarinos needed a home, so she and her family began to raise money and awareness throughout our community. Habitat supported their efforts and enough money was raised to purchase property in Cranberry Twp. The next challenge was to raise enough funds to start building the Barbarinos' home.

The Barbarino family was chosen to be the Cranberry CUP's 2009 Inspirational Family and the Cranberry CUP has given them the money to help them get started. With the help and generosity of the Cranberry CUP community, we intend to help the Barbarinos finish their home this summer while helping Caitlyn achieve her goal.

Please rally around the Barbarino Family! There is no doubt that they will inspire our entire community by showing us that having courage and a positive attitude during a sudden major life crisis makes a difference. We all benefit by being reminded of what is truly important in life.

In addition to our designated Inspirational Family, the Cranberry CUP helps other local families all year around. Your participation, volunteerism, and contributions will make a tremendous difference in many lives.

For more information about our event, to volunteer, or to make a contribution, please contact the Cranberry CUP. Contributions can be made out to the Cranberry CUP and mailed to the address below.

Cranberry CUP
PO Box 1614
Cranberry Twp., PA 16066
softball@zoominternet.net
www.cranberrycup.org