Urgent Appeal: IHN Needs Your Help

As you can imagine, the current economic situation is greatly affecting the IHN program's ability to raise operating revenue. The IHN program is unique from other programs that help the homeless, in that we do not receive any State or Federal money. By not accepting this form of funding we can serve guests who do not qualify for support from programs that receive state and federal money. This is our niche in the "safety net" for Worcester County families who become temporarily homeless. All of our funding is derived from donations from churches, synagogues, some local grants, and individuals who know about and support our program.

The operating budget for this year was originally projected at $140,000. With careful planning we expect to bring in the expense line at or around $115,000, without substantially impacting the quality of services we deliver to our guests. Even at this reduced rate, we are currently projecting a fiscal budget shortfall through June 30th of $20,000-$30,000.

We are hoping to close the budget shortfall by appealing to all the friends of IHN, and asking them to consider supporting us financially between now and June 30th. Any donation, large or small, would be greatly appreciated. We would also like to ask churches, synagogues and other organizations (who do not already do so) to consider sponsoring a fundraiser on behalf of the IHN program. Members of the IHN Advisory Committee would be willing to work with any organization that is willing to sponsor a fundraiser, by helping with fundraising ideas, and by using our email network to "get the word out" about an upcoming event.

As important as it is to have this type of fundraising activity, it is equally important for us to know about the fundraiser, so that we can forecast where our operating revenue will be coming from. So, please contact one of the members of our Advisory Committee listed below if you have an interest in supporting our appeal. Thank you for your anticipated support.

Phil Holman (Chair) philsterl@comcast.net Cell: 508 868 9245
Janet Madison (Vice Chair) jmadison60@comcast.net Cell: 978 895 1599
Joanne Alley (IHN Director) IHNWorcester@verizon.net Office: 508 798 8286