A Stitch in Time.. Sews Good Deeds…
April 23, 2004
Every Thursday afternoon, volunteer Pat Renaud brings her sewing machine to Centre 507 to mend clothes.
Donations Needed to Offset cuts
April 20, 2004
Giving some participants an hourly wage to help clean Centre 507 and prepare snacks has provided them with much-needed income and valuable work experience over the years.
But now, due to funding shortfalls, the cleaning program has been cut, and the snack program is in danger.
“These programs have given clients the opportunity to give back to the Centre and to work and sharpen their skills,” says Dan Lalonde, the Centre 507 support worker who has been running the snack and cleaning programs. “The cleaning program gave people some important, practical skills, like experience working with different chemicals.”
Demand for Centre 507 services, like this work experience opportunity, increases steadily. But expenses are rising, while revenue is either remaining stable or declining. The Centre has run a deficit over the last few years, covered by a dwindling reserve. All expenses have been scrutinized and shaved to the bone. Unless the Centre
can bring in more revenue, there will be more cuts to services.
The Centre’s volunteer board of directors has made fundraising a priority. Board members and staff are producing this newsletter, making more presentations to churches, making personal appeals to individuals, and researching foundations and special events. Because donors are more likely to give to a charity they’ve heard of, the board is also looking for ways to increase the profile of the Centre, from better signage to public service ads in newspapers.
There have been some gains. In 2003, donations were up. But participants are no longer paid to clean, and it’s not clear how this will effect staff and volunteers. Staff, board members, volunteers and participants are all concerned about what may be next.
Now more than ever, we need donors to help us bridge the gap. Please consider a contribution to Centre 507, whether it’s money, time in the Centre or fundraising help. For more information, contact Centre 507 at 233-5626 or centre507@ncf.ca. Or use the form on the back page to make a donation