by Max Marbut
Staff Writer
Long before the tent was raised or the first meal was served Clara White Mission CEO and President Ju’Coby Pittman admitted that there was some concern over how the current economy might affect Friday’s 15th Annual Miracle on Ashley Street Celebrity Chefs & Servers fundraiser.
Yesterday morning, Pittman-Peele said she was happy to report the community came through again, bettering last year’s $41,000 in funds raised by almost 10
percent with a 2009 figure of $45,000 raised for the mission’s programs.
“Every year it just amazes me,” said Pittman-Peele. “We use the funds raised at this event for essential services like our food program to keep the doors open to serve hungry people.”
The number of people who lined up for the free lunch this year also grew compared to last year and Pittman-Peele commented that’s not a surprise.
“In the past year, we have started seeing people who used to donate and volunteer show up in line for our services because they have lost their jobs or their homes,” she said.
This year’s funds raised put the event over the $500,000 mark for its 15-year history. Pittman-Peele also said Clara White Mission’s other lunch-related fundraiser, the “Clara’s at the Cathedral Cafe” in partnership with St. John’s Episcopal Cathedral, will celebrate its second anniversary this year. The meal is prepared and served by students enrolled in the mission’s culinary and catering program from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. every Friday at 265 E. Church St. For details or reservations call 354-4162 or visit www.clarawhitemission.org.
Photo by Max Marbut
356-2466