DELTA DENTAL PLAN OF NEW JERSEY MAKES DONATION TO ST. PETER'S VILLAGE

PARSIPPANY, NJ (February 2002) – Delta Dental Plan of New Jersey (Delta Dental) recently spread post-holiday cheer when they chose to donate the funds originally allocated for the Company's 2001 corporate holiday cards to a local charity. Delta Dental presented St. Peter's Village in Denville with a check for $3,000 and an evening of entertainment that included an ice cream sundae-making party and a magic show for the orphanage's young residents.

"At the end of a year that was especially difficult for many, we thought it was appropriate to make a gesture, in lieu of our traditional holiday card mailing, that would impact local children," said Walter Van Brunt, President and CEO. "Although we undertake many charitable endeavors throughout the year, it's particularly rewarding to know that we've brought happiness to youngsters in our area who are so deserving and appreciative of our gift."

With roots dating back to 1863 as a Catholic orphanage in Newark, St. Peter's Village is one of the oldest nonsectarian facilities in America. They can currently accept, into resident care, up to 16 boys between 11 and 18 years of age who are deprived, abandoned, neglected, or who have mild to moderate emotional, behavioral, or social problems. Children are placed at St. Peter's Village through the New Jersey Division of Youth and Family Services (D.Y.F.S.).

St. Peter's Village is funded by the New Jersey Division of Youth and Family Services and through sources of private support, but largely from public donations. In addition to monetary donations, St. Peter's accepts toiletries and new clothing. Public participation is also encouraged through the Village's Volunteer Programs. For further information regarding any aspect of St. Peter's Village, please contact Kelly McNamara, Acting Director, at 973-627-0212.

Delta Dental Plan of New Jersey, Inc., is New Jersey’s and Connecticut's leading dental benefits carrier, providing coverage to more than one million people through contracts with employers in New Jersey and Connecticut. The Delta Dental Plan system is a national network of independently operated, not-for-profit dental service corporations specializing in providing dental benefits programs for employee groups throughout the country. For more information visit us on the Web at www.deltadentalnj.com.