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Image courtesy of the Buffalo City Mission
Image courtesy of the Buffalo City Mission

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

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Mon, Oct 17th 2022 11:20 am

Campaign aims to raise $3.3 million to provide critical programs & services to Western New York’s homeless community; annual turkey drive sets a goal of 1,000 donated turkeys to collect before Thanksgiving holiday

On Monday, the Buffalo City Mission announced the launch of its annual fall fundraising campaign. Named "One Mission, One Hope," the initiative aims to raise $3.3 million between Oct. 17 and Dec. 31.

Additionally, the agency kicked off its annual turkey drive, seeking 1,000 turkeys to feed families, elderly individuals and shut-ins this Thanksgiving. Donations can be made online.

“Every year, the fall season is a crucial time for us to come together as the ‘City of Good Neighbors’ and support our struggling community,” said Aubrey Calhoun, CEO and executive director of the Buffalo City Mission. “As more individuals continue to fall below the poverty line, the life-changing resources we provide are more critical than ever. For all those who are able, we ask that you consider donating to the mission this year. No amount is too small – every donation can help transform the lives of those in need throughout Western New York.”

Organizers said the fall campaign goal represents 32% of the Buffalo City Mission’s annual operating budget. It funds the resources necessary to sustain the year-round programs and services the agency provides to the poor and homeless in the community. This includes meeting essential needs for struggling men, women and children, and providing holistic services that work to alleviate the root causes of homelessness.

Calhoun explained, “There continues to be a great need in Western New York. We need to be more vigilant by providing the vital programs and services that help every person who walks through our doors to build a pathway towards self-sufficiency.”

A press release noted, “Last year, the City Mission served 104,050 meals and provided 48,749 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.”

The City Mission is also kicking off its annual turkey drive – seeking donations of individual turkeys from the public. Individuals can contribute by delivering turkeys to the Buffalo City Mission at 100 East Tupper St. Donations will provide a traditional Thanksgiving meal to more than 5,000 impoverished families, the elderly, and shut-ins who need community support this season.

“Life is challenging right now,” Calhoun said. “With continuing inflation, costs for necessities like housing, gas and groceries are higher than ever; food alone has increased by over 9%. But it’s even harder for our struggling neighbors to make ends meet. We have the power to make a difference, and all contributions will help us make that impact. 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 find hope this Thanksgiving, call 716-854-8181, ext. 407, or visit buffalocitymission.org. To learn more about the annual fall campaign, or how a donation can help restore a life of a fellow Buffalonian, visit buffalocitymission.org/give.

To stay updated on these initiatives and the broader work of the Buffalo City Mission, follow the organization on FacebookInstagram and Twitter.

The Buffalo City Mission, founded in 1917, is a nonprofit organization providing preventative, emergency, and transitional housing programs to thousands of people who are homeless and impoverished every year. The agency includes the new Alfiero Family Center of Hope and Promise, and a women and children’s shelter (Cornerstone Manor), along with the Dick Road Thrift Store to serve the Western New York community. For more information, visit www.buffalocitymission.org or call 716-854-8181.

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