United for Families supporters volunteer, advocate, solicit and donate for their cause. Now they can shop.

The child-welfare organization is one of many charities participating in Macy's Sept. 20 Shop for a Cause, an event coordinated annually by the retail giant to highlight the good works of local non-profit organizations.

Through Sept. 20, Macy's shoppers can purchase a $5 ticket from United for Families and receive 20 percent off store merchandise. All proceeds will benefit United for Families' Bookworm Babies Birthday Club.

The program provides a new book or gift card, greeting card and small toy to foster children during the month of their birthday, said Lea Tate, United for Families Community Resource Coordinator.

"We want to be sure that every child in foster care is exposed to books and has the opportunity to build his own personal library," Tate said. "And it's their birthday - we think it's important to recognize our children on their birthdays so they know we haven't forgotten them."

United for Families will be at Macy's from 5-7 p.m. every Wednesday and from 12 a.m. to 1 p.m. every Saturday to sell tickets. Tickets also may be purchased the day of the event.

For more information or to make a donation, call Leslie Haviland-Smith at 398-2920 Ext 292 or visit www.unitedforfamilies.org.