Many of you are aware that SHIP began this year with concerns about funding. Our annual budget of late has been about $10,000. Expenses have climbed several thousand dollars in recent years because of background checks that are now standard procedure. Our traditional primary fund raiser, the fireworks stand, is no longer a viable option. After forecasting typical individual and group donations for this year, we projected a shortfall of approximately $6,000.
Well, we all know how much God loves and blesses this program. The Catholic Campaign for Human Development Diocese of Orange, or more appropriately the Holy Spirit, came to our rescue just at the right time. On Tuesday, August 8, 2006, a check was presented to SHIP to cover our entire projected shortfall. Deacon Gary of St. Hedwig Catholic Church in Los Alamitos, who sits on the board of directors of the Catholic Campaign for Human Development Diocese Orange, was on hand to present the check in person to SHIP Volunteers. Gary has been aware of SHIP for some time now, and after discussions with Susan Haggard, also of St. Hedwigs, he suggested that SHIP should apply for a grant. We were delighted to do so. After an extensive review of many grant applicants, SHIP was one of only five Orange County based non-profits to receive a grant. We actually received $295 more than the amount that we requested! Tuesday, August 8, 2006 was indeed a very important night for SHIP. We will be eligible for grant money for two more years. During that time we plan to research other grant opportunities to keep our program financially healthy and fully funded.
Congratulations Team!!!
On hand for the presentation were, pictured left to right,
Richard, Joan, Dave, Bob, Baron, Deacon Gary, Jim, Susan, Sherrill, and Bill
