Buffalo City Mission launches 'One Mission, One Hope' fall campaign, turkey drive

Fall campaign aims to raise $3.7 million to provide critical programs & services to Western New York’s homeless community.

√ Turkey drive sets a goal of 1,000 donated turkeys to collect before Thanksgiving. 

The Buffalo City Mission announced the launch of two annual initiatives. The first is the announcement of its fall fundraising campaign, “One Mission, One Hope,” a significant annual initiative to advance its work in providing critical programs and services for people experiencing homelessness in Buffalo. This year, the City Mission aims to raise $3.7 million for the campaign. Additionally, the agecny kicked off its annual turkey drive, seeking 1,000 turkeys to feed families, elderly individuals and shut-ins this Thanksgiving. Donations for both initiatives can be made online.

“Our annual fall campaign is an important time where we once again look to the generosity of this special community,” said Aubrey Calhoun, CEO and executive director of the Buffalo City Mission. “Our target $3.7 million will enable us to continue providing the services and programs that have the power to lift up and transform the lives of our fellow neighbors who are less fortunate.”

Through this year’s fall campaign, the City Mission asks for community support to help raise $3.7 million between October and Dec. 31 – representing 27% of the organization’s annual operating budget. The campaign is a significant yearly fundraiser that helps the agency to provide the finances and resources necessary to sustain its year-round work in saving the poor and homeless.

Turkey Time

The City Mission’s annual turkey drive seeks donations of individual turkeys from the community. Individuals can contribute by delivering turkeys to the Buffalo City Mission at 100 E. Tupper St.

A press release noted, “Donations will provide a traditional Thanksgiving meal to more than 5,000 impoverished families, the elderly, and shut-ins this season who need community support.”

Calhoun said, “Homelessness continues to be a serious and unchecked blight in the Western New York area. With homelessness up by 35% – the largest single-year increase in over a decade in Erie County – the need is great. In addition, more than 28% of people in Buffalo live below the poverty line. Through our fall campaign, we have an opportunity to raise critical funds that provide programs and services available for every individual that comes through our doors.”

The press release added, “Last year, the City Mission served 120,549 meals and provided 76,667 safe nights of sleep shelter. As the region’s largest homeless shelter, the organization stands unwavering in its role as a center of hope, restoration and support, working alongside the community to serve those in need.”

Calhoun said, “The time to make a difference is now. The City Mission runs 365 days a year because homelessness does not rest. The need today is incredibly important. Every contribution from every individual can make a difference, help others, and restore lives. Together, we can continue to help our community in need.”

Turkey donation drop-offs are welcome between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. weekdays. To volunteer or learn how to help a neighbor this Thanksgiving, call 716-854-8181, ext. 419. Visit buffalocitymission.org to make a donation toward the fall campaign.