OUGM Newsletter February 2010

Page 7

THANK YOU for your support!

GROWTH OF SERVICES

2500

65000

2000

60000

1500

55000

1000

50000

500

45000

0

40000

MEALS SERVED

On Christmas day, a bedraggled family of four made their way to the Mission seeking some holiday cheer. It turns out that the father recently lost his job, and as a result, the family lost their home. They are now living in a family shelter, trying to recover their lives. Because of dedicated staff members, a group of loving volunteers,and faithful financial partners like you, the Mission was open to receive them. During their visit to the Mission, St. Nicholas appeared with gifts, while the family enjoyed a Christmas dinner complete with ham and twice baked potatoes. Live music was provided by vocalist Nika Hansen. This story is a poignant illustration of why the Mission is such a vital community asset.

Need for Services Continues to Grow DENTAL APPOINTMENTS

More Christmas Highlights!

2006

2007 Appointments

2008

2009

Meals

The above chart shows the growth in dental appointments and hot meals served from 2006 to 2009 at the Olympia Union Gospel Mission. Over time, the chart shows a 47% growth in dental and a 40% growth in food services. With a new year about to start, the Mission sees no signs of a downturn in the need for services, and in fact, December was a record month for dental with over 200 patients seeking relief from pain and infection.

Cody Howard: Mission Kitchen Manager by day, St. Nicholas on Christmas

Evolution of Mission Programs In 1998, the Mission opened a furniture bank known as the Serving Hands Ministry. In 2009, the Mission’s Board voted to discontinue this ministry. This decision was based on a diminishing community need due to new furniture banks opening in Thurston County. Droppping Serving Hands has made it possible to focus resources on other Mission programs, including our Health Resource Center.


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