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The head of a downtown homeless charity says he’s “very, very concerned” as the two-week-old postal strike puts a crimp on fundraisng efforts.
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Aklilu Wendaferew, the executive director of Good Shepherd Ministries — located at Queen and Parliament Sts. — said there are about 5,000 letters seeking donations stuck in the mail as a result of the strike.
The labour stoppage came at a time when fund-raising efforts typically yield $500,000, added Wendaferew.
“The fundraising during Christmas season represents about 17% of donations from individuals, businesses and organizations,” said Wendaferew.
Good Sheppard’s charitable work includes feeding about 900 people in Toronto each day in addition to operating a shelter, an addiction program, and a housing directory.
“We have to mail out an appeal letter to all our supporters and donors. Unfortunately, this year’s appeal letters cannot be delivered due to the impasse between the union and Canada Post,” said Wendaferew.
“So that’s a big problem,” he added. “While we support everyone in getting a living wage and to protect their health and safety, we’re concerned that this will have a serious impact on the income of the Good Shepherd and therefore the service we provide to the homeless and the disadvantaged. So we’re very, very concerned about this.”
Wendaferew says Good Shepherd is attempting to contact people and collect donations by email.
People wishing to make a donation can go online, call 416-869-3619, ext. 277, or email, [email protected].
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