COMMUNITY
Pinch spurs layoffs at City Mission
Layoffs have occurred and other economies are in store for the Buffalo City Mission, which has fallen $600,000 short of its $2.5 million fundraising goal for 2008-09.
Officials of the nonprofit agency said the annual fall appeal, “Restore Hope, Dignity and Lives,” sought $1 million more than usual because of the increased demand for mission services and the expiration of two grants totaling $550,000.
The mission’s $5.5 million annual budget funds operations at the mission’s shelter as well as programs for women and children at Cornerstone Manor.
Mission spokeswoman Aubrey Calhoun said four employees have been laid off and no more layoffs are planned so far. The mission employs 96 full-and part-time staffers.
To ease the funding crunch, the organization, which also operates a thrift store, is collaborating with Goodwill Industries to cut costs associated with salvage goods, such as used clothing, and bailing.
The mission also plans to step up its year-round fundraising appeals and seek out new grants.
“We will do everything in our power to make sure that this campaign shortfall will not have any effect on our services and programs that we offer to our community,” said Stuart Harper, the mission’s executive director.
During the recent cold snap, the mission’s East Tupper Street facility was filled beyond capacity.
Donations can be made online at www.buffalocitymission.org or mailed to Buffalo City Mission, 100 E. Tupper St., Buffalo, NY 14203.
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