The Banner

On Feb. 21, Peter Facinelli was met by over 2,000 screaming fans that had lined up as early as 3 a.m. at the Victoria Gardens Shopping Center in Rancho Cucamonga. The "Twilight" actor was there to sign autographs and take pictures to help The United Nations Children Fund raise money for Haiti.

Victoria Gardens promoted this event via Facebook and radio. VIP Meet and Greet tickets were also given away each day during the week leading up to Facinelli's arrival. Fans stuck close to their computers as a trivia question was posted on Facebook and each hoped to be the first fan with the correct answer. These lucky fans received two tickets for a private meet and greet with Facinelli.

"It's a tragedy, and I wanted tobeapartofitinsomeway." Facinelli said about the disaster in Haiti. Throughout the day the line grew as fans waited in the rain and shine to meet Facinelli. Personal autographs were $25, pictures were $40, and both costing $65. Portions of the proceeds were given to UNICEF. Facinelli was scheduled to meet fans from noon until 6 p.m., but he stayed until the last fan was met.

Facinelli was happy to report that filming for "Eclipse" had finished. "We had a great time, and I hope it's as good as the last one. Eclipse is my favorite book," Facinelli said. During the month of December he was on double- duty with both "Eclipse" and "Nurse Jackie". "I'm excited to be home with my family," Facinelli said.

Accompanying Facinelli in his quest to help Haiti were Lifestream buses that stood by for anyone who wanted to donate blood. Lifestream also promoted donating blood in the month of June. Anyone who donates blood during the month of June and mentions Redlands Community Hospital is eligible to receive an exclusive, one of a kind 'Bitten' T-shirt that reads 'I didn't need to get bitten to give blood." Other giveaways include opportunities to win exclusive Twilight Saga memorabilia. The radio station 99.1 KGGI was there as well, giving away prizes and playing music.

Facinelli and other Twilight Saga cast members are also getting involved with Twihards4Charity. According to the website, "Twihards4Charity is about uniting the millions of Twilight fans and putting their power towards making a difference where it's needed the most. We are connecting brands, sponsors and celebrities to provide Twilight- themed products that you love to benefit charity." The website is run by a friend of Facinelli's and they are starting by helping those in Haiti.