Urban Ministry event yields $75K

Friday, November 20, 2009
(Updated 3:06 pm)
Staff Reports

Accompanying Photos

Urban Minstry event yields $75k
Jerry Wolford ( News & Record )

Photo Caption: Libby Fortin helps her 2-year-old daughter, Disa, with some soup.

WANT TO GIVE?

Donate directly to the nonprofit by going online to greensborourbanministry­­;.org, calling 271-5959, Ext. 306, or sending checks to: Greensboro Urban Ministry, 305 W. Lee St., Greensboro, NC 27406.

 

GREENSBORO — Greensboro Urban Ministry’s 18th annual Feast of Caring at First Baptist Church raised more than $75,000 Thursday evening, the nonprofit reports.

The Rev. Mike Aiken, executive director of the Urban Ministry, said $75,810 was raised in donations and pledges with 1,857 people in attendance. More than 2,100 people attended the event last year, contributing to a record $113,783 in donations.

“Last night was another amazing Feast of Caring where our wonderful community came together to break bread and enjoy tasty soups in a spirit of giving and celebration,” Aiken said in a news release.

“As the “economic hurricane” continues, the people we serve and the people who support us are facing losses of income and security. We were hoping to raise $100,000 last night, but we fell short by nearly $25,000.”

The Feast of Caring event marked the beginning of the fundraising campaign to meet the nonprofit’s $3.3 million budget. An additional $86,500 is needed for the temporary Winter Emergency (WE) shelters.

“With the spark provided by the Feast of Caring and God’s loving grace, I am confident we will meet our goal,” Aiken said.

Of the $75,810 raised last night, $1,000 from a personal donation and $12,500 from the Bank of America Foundation was specifically designated for the WE shelters, thus lowering the ministry’s need from $100,000 to the $86,500.

Residents can donate directly to the nonprofit by going online to greensborourbanministry­.org, calling 271-5959, Ext. 306, or sending checks to: Greensboro Urban Ministry, 305 W. Lee St., Greensboro, NC 27406.

They can also purchase William Mangum’s 2009 Honor Card, entitled “Moving On,” A card is available for a donation of $5 or more at the following locations: