Our next VFP Meeting is Monday, March 15, 2010 at the VA Hospital in Albany, 4th floor Ann Wilson Lounge 7 PM.

From Dan Wilcox

Folks --

This is my single, annual appeal for money to help the Homeless Action Committee of Albany, NY. Last year with your generosity I helped raise $685 -- thank you to everyone who contributed.

The 17th Annual Sleep-a-thon in the Park will be held on Friday March 5 from 7PM to 5AM Saturday, in Townsend Park at the corner of Henry Johnson Blvd. & Central Ave., in Albany, NY. The event is held rain or shine or inclement weather.

Funds raised will benefit the Homeless Action Committee’s Single Room Occupancy (SRO) housing and Outreach Van programs. The SRO is a home for chronic alcoholics who previously were homeless and living on the streets for years. HAC’s Outreach Van program makes rounds on the streets and assists people without shelter or housing. Outreach workers provide a listening ear, food, clothing, blankets, referrals and transportation to area resources.

HAC raised over $20,000 from this event last year, and attendance broke the record with 190 people including college and high school students, elected officials, church groups and supporters! HAC is experiencing over $50,000 in budget cuts in 2010 and needs to raise a record amount from this event!

There are many ways you can contribute:

-- send your check (made out to "Homeless Action Committee") to me: Dan Wilcox, 280 South Main Ave., Albany, NY 12208

-- get your own pledge sheet & raise money yourself (information & pledge sheets at www.homelessaction.com)

-- send your contribution directly to: HAC, 393 N. Pearl St., Albany, NY 12207

-- come to the Sleep-a-thon & contribute your money there directly

I do not usually spend the entire night in the park but your generosity in the past has helped keep this essential organization going & helping others who but for HAC would be spending all their nights sleeping in the park.  Thank you.

Peace,

Dan