CHELMSFORD, MA. February, 15, 2001 - New England based employees of

From left to right: Gena Pirtle, Taylor Johnson, Ellen Parker (Executive Director of Project Bread), Maura McCall

Cisco Systems, Inc. (NASDAQ: CSCO) the worldwide leader in networking for the Internet, culminated a six-week fundraising campaign by raising over $262,000 for Project Bread, a leading anti-hunger organization in Massachusetts, as well as over $12,000 for New Horizons Soup Kitchen and Shelter in New Hampshire. The campaign was part of a company-wide effort, which raised over $3 million from Cisco employees nationwide. Local donations will be used to support food pantries, soup kitchens, food banks, and food salvage programs in Massachusetts and the greater Manchester, New Hampshire area.

"Once again, Cisco Systems has demonstrated itself to be a true community leader. This donation has nearly doubled last year's contribution, which makes Cisco the single largest corporate contributor to Project Bread," said Ellen Parker, Executive Director of Project Bread. "The spirit and generosity of Cisco employees will truly make a difference in the lives of hungry children and families."

"Cisco is a strong believer in giving back to communities around the world," said John Morgridge, Cisco's Chairman of the Board. "We're delighted to provide our support -- be that through employees' generous contributions to such organizations as Project Bread, or the philanthropic efforts via the Cisco Foundation."

The Cisco fundraising effort more than doubled the amount it raised last year. In addition to the money raised, Cisco employees also donated over 2,000 pounds of food and helped sort donations at the Merrimack Valley Catholic Charities Food Pantry, a local program supported by Project Bread. The fundraising drive is part of an ongoing commitment to Project Bread, which includes support for the Walk for Hunger and other programs that raise money to help feed hungry families. Since December 1996, Cisco has raised over $539,000 for Project Bread in Massachusetts.

In addition to the fundraising drive, Cisco employees held a bake sale, craft fair, auction, raffle, and sold root beer floats to collect funds for the cause. Cisco's Chairman of the Board John Morgridge, as well as the Cisco Foundation matched all the money raised by employees.

Cisco employs approximately 2,600 people in New England and more than 40,000 worldwide.