Montréal, October 2, 2008 – Beginning this month, Avon Canada will be turning to its massive sales force of 65,000 Independent Sales Representatives to spread the word about its first-ever ‘Call for the Cure’ Campaign, the most grassroots-focused breast cancer awareness campaign ever launched by Avon. Representatives will rally for the cause by asking their customers, friends and family to call 1-900-561-PINK which, when called, will automatically add $2 to their phone bill as a donation to the Avon Breast Cancer Crusade (www.avoncrusade.ca). Cell phone customers with Bell Mobility can call # PINK (7465). Avon is the largest corporate contributor to breast cancer research in the world.

Avon Independent Representatives will be raising awareness across Canada primarily through word-of-mouth and community-based activities such as mini-walks. The funds raised by ‘Call for the Cure’ will help support the Canadian Breast Cancer Research Alliance (CBCRA), which funds research projects led by some of Canada’s top scientists in the field. Aligning this campaign with the CBCRA will make a big difference in the lives of people with breast cancer.

Since the Breast Cancer Crusade was first launched 15 years ago, Canadian Avon Independent Sales Representatives have voluntarily raised more than $15 million for Breast Cancer Research through the sale of pink ribbon products. Worldwide, the Avon Breast Cancer Crusade has raised and awarded more than $525 million in 50 countries for awareness and education; screening and diagnosis; access to treatment; support services; and scientific research. More information can be found at www.avon.ca.

Avon is the world’s largest direct seller, marketing to women in more than 100 countries through 5.5 million independent Avon Sales Representatives. Avon’s product line includes beauty products, fashion jewelry and apparel, and features such well-recognized brand names as Avon Color, Anew, Skin-So-Soft, Advance Techniques, Avon Naturals, and Mark. Learn more about Avon and its products at www.avoncompany.com .