Summer '11 Newsletter Summer '11 Newsletter How do we do it? In April, we served over 2100 hot meals and that was just the beginning. In the first quarter of the year we served 12,000 cups of coffee and tea. Arkware, our clothing outlet distributes hundreds of items each week. The art program is now operating most evenings, sometimes with 20 or more people crowded around the tables in the new studio we were able to create last year. The computer classes keep rolling along. This spring for the first time, we helped several people file their income tax, thus ensuring they will receive things like the HST credit. The tutoring program helps new immigrants learn English and others to complete their high school diploma. A couple of people have been helped to find suitable housing. For others, we were able to find a program or office that dealt with their particular issue. The Ark can do all this, and more, because of a lot of people just like you! The first thing that comes to mind is finances. In 2010, the financial report (available to anyone who asks, and a summary of which is on our website) says the Ark spent $217,691 to operate. That money paid the mortgage on our very fine building and the insurance, utilities and maintenance it takes to run it, looked after the small staff, and of course, some was used to raise the rest. Less than 5% of funds came from foundations, none from any government. The gifts that permit the Ark to exist come from the people, churches, service clubs and businesses of London. The average donation was $271; the median donation was $100. So, you can see there are no 'large' donors, just a host of folks who do what they can to make a difference. We appreciate everyone who gives. Newsletters like this one are intended to share the good news of what is happening rather than simply asking for more. What the financial report does not show is all that is given besides money. To serve more than 22,000 meals last year, we spent almost nothing on food. It was all donated. The folks who come to serve the meals usually help us with the 'need of the week.' We do cultivate relationships with some companies and other agencies we share with but it still amazes us to see the varied, tasty meals Debby, our intrepid cook is able to serve. When we need something, it usually arrives (you might not believe how much fun that is!) Last year we received a nearly new washer and dryer and a new couch for the fireside room. This year, it was a good used commercial dishwasher, 8 newer computers and a fridge and stove for the upstairs apartment, among other things. Clothes are constantly arriving to be sorted and distributed through Arkware. Although we don't put all this in the financial report, it all adds up to an amazing amount, without which the Ark could not do what it does. Beyond anything else, though, it is those who volunteer who make the Ark possible. Some days, 30 or more people will come to volunteer. During one recent day, we counted 99.5 volunteer hours. Over the course of a week, 163 people served. It is a rare day when someone does not call or email asking to volunteer. In March, we held a memorial service for Pauline McCoy, our longest serving daytime volunteer. She had been coming for nearly 15 years, during which time she had both hips replaced. Of course, we miss her, but she represents the hundreds of people who serve here each month. They give, but they also receive. As Pauline said, “these are my friends.” It is fun to be with friends. So, the Ark works because of you! So many people, each doing their bit. Together we make a difference. The Ark Aid Street Mission, Inc 696 Dundas Street E., London, Ontario N5W 2Z4 Tel. 519-667-0322 Fax: 226-289-3045 E-mail: [email protected] Web: www.arkaidmission.com 2010 Expenses: $217,691 2011 Budget: $247,734 Monthly Budget $20,644