Emporia Rescue Mission and Abundant Harvest Director Lee Alderman is hoping for a big push as the agencies close out the annual Feinstein Challenge fundraiser at the end of this month.
On KVOE’s Newsmaker segment Tuesday, Alderman said about $36,000 has been generated so far, or around 60 percent of the $60,000 goal. As has been the case the last few years, Alderman says the effort this year is getting a boost from an anonymous donor, who is matching all financial donations up to $25,000.
Alderman says overall donations to both agencies have dipped after changes in federal tax policy at the end of 2017. Those donations are sliding at a time when demand continues at a high level.
Abundant Harvest gave out over 21,000 food boxes last year — or around 430 boxes a week — during its morning distributions. Abundant Harvest and the Rescue Mission also combined to serve almost 28,000 meals last year.
With the demand high and the donations decreasing, Alderman says meeting the fundraising goal is important — but that gives no wiggle room to either agency.
If donations go past $60,000, Alderman says roof repairs at Abundant Harvest and other deferred maintenance projects at both facilities will at least be considered and could start.
To donate, mail checks to Post Office Box 901 in Emporia. For more information, call Alderman at 794-2977. The fundraising drive ends April 30.
