Peabody Chamber of Commerce holding online auction

PEABODY – The second annual Peabody Chamber of Commerce’s online auction is now running through May 30 to benefit the non-profit organization Citizens for Adequate Housing.Auction lovers can make their bids in the comfort of their own home by simply logging on to the chamber’s Web site 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and help those less fortunate at the same time.”The online format allows people to view auction items when it is convenient for them,” said Executive Director Deanna Healey. “They will always know what the status of their bid request is and can even be alerted by email if they are outbid.”The chamber first piloted the online auction last year and the response was overwhelming. Items up for grabs include Red Sox tickets, autographed sports memorabilia, and gift certificates to hundreds of local restaurants, retailers, and family attractions throughout New England. Newer items will be gradually added to the list throughout the month.Healey said it was important to the chamber to “provide assistance in our own community by partnering with a local organization that is also a member of the chamber.”Citizens for Adequate Housing works to end homelessness in the North Shore by operating two local shelters, Inn Transition and Inn Between, as well as the Communities Land Trust program, which rents housing to families in need at a cost far lower than the average rate.To help their cause, log on to www.peabodychamber.com and click on the “Auction 2008” link.