Ping Fortenberry

Found out some details today.

We get about a ton of food each month from MEFAP (Mass Emergency Food
Availability Program), but that will soon be cutting back. The State
is already in a billion dollar deficit with more to follow. We get 14
cases of ten various items (from a list of about 20). That is from
the Lowell Food Bank which is a State run facility. We also get about
another ton of food for which we pay $0.17/pound. Our money comes
from two $5000 private grants, and about $20K from two churches, and
some money from fund raisers (auction, sponsored foot race, etc.).

The local supermarkets give us yesterday's pastries/breads, and old
fruit and vegetables which we have to package.

Our expenses are mortgage on the building, expenses for the 12 pass
van, heat and electricity, etc. Only one person is paid - the
Director and then she is only a part-time employee, and doesn't make
very much for all she has to go through each week.

Our cubbards are getting very bare because of the State's cutbacks and
a slight increase in clients.

Dave