MISSISSAUGA, ON, May 11 /CNW/ - Melissa Jones of Mississauga has won the
Grand Prize of The Co-operators national "5,000 Reasons Why" contest. The
Co-operators agent Desh Bandhu today presented Ms Jones with a cheque for
$5,000, to be put toward investments of her choice.
    The "5,000 Reasons Why" campaign was a national multi-media campaign
aimed at increasing awareness and understanding of financial planning and
investment issues. The six-week campaign was launched January 29. The
thousands of Canadians who participated received investment information
tailored to their particular needs, and were entered into the Grand Prize
draw.
    "Financial security begins with understanding your needs and the needs of
your family," said Kathy Bardswick, President and CEO of The Co-operators.
"Through the '5,000 Reasons Why' campaign, we are helping Canadians better
understand what types of financial planning tools can best provide for their
financial security for years to come."
    The campaign encouraged Canadians to examine their financial plans, to
ensure they have the products and services needed to provide comprehensive
financial security for themselves and their families. The Co-operators agents
can help individuals understand what it takes to save for the future and
provide for their families down the road.

    The Co-operators is a national group of Canadian companies focussing on
home, auto, life, group, commercial and farm insurance, as well as investment
products and property development. Owned by 37 Canadian co-operatives, credit
unions and like-minded organizations, The Co-operators is well known for its
philanthropy and community involvement. For more information, please visit
www.cooperators.ca.

For further information: Leonard Sharman, Media Relations Specialist,
The Co-operators, 1-877-795-7272, ext. 2707