The Bradford
JonnycakeCenter
of Westerly
October 20, 2009
Dear Friends of the Jonnycake Center:
We had our first widespread frost in early October. Snowflakes were seen mixed in with the rain on a Friday evening in mid-October. Yes, another winter season is fast approaching, and some may be of the opinion that Old Man Winter is already here. Even the long-timers have been remarking on the unusual cold weather this year.
A sure sign of winter is the sound of the furnace kicking on. And that sound is terrifying to some people. An early heating season adds more expenses to already-burdened households.
Unemployment in our area has reached well over double-digits. Local factories have closed. Job openings are almost non-existent. Thousands of people in our communities are living on unemployment compensation, on food stamps, on other public assistance.
And many find themselves at our door.
So far this year, the Jonnycake Center has provided 15% more food and 20% more financial assistance than all of last year – and we still have three months to go in 2009.
Fortunately, we have many benefactors – the local civic groups like the Lions, the Elks and the Rotary Clubs – the Kimball, Champlin and Episcopal Foundations – local schools and churches – and you, our neighbors.
We know that many of our neighbors who have helped us in the past are experiencing difficult times now. It’s all the more reason that those who can help should do what they can to help, now more than ever.
Yes, we’ve been busier than we’ve ever been. And we’ve been working closely with other social relief organizations to stretch our limited resources. But in the end, the difference is always made by people like you, who have always been there for us, who are going to help us no matter how tough things get.
We are thankful that we have people like you to count on.
Gratefully yours,
The Board of Directors, Jonnycake Center of Westerly
P.S.: Please try to attend one of the fundraisers planned for October (pancake breakfast on Oct. 24th, car wash on the 31st) or in November (pasta supper on Nov. 12th). It's a great way for you to get together with friends while supporting the Center. See the home page of this website for details.
Checks may be made payable to:
BRADFORD JONNYCAKE CENTER
PO Box 273
Westerly, R.I. 02891
email: bradfordjonnycake@yahoo.com