The Final Stretch

Since January, NAM has seen a 17% increase in the number of new families seeking relief from high food and gas prices. This year, NAM is receiving calls from companies that have supported us in the past, asking us to assist their employees who are struggling to make ends meet.

We have also seen a number of individuals, businesses, foundations and community groups step up to assist NAM's staff, volunteers and Congregations address the increased need. Even with all this additional support, NAM has still made it through the year with one arm tied behind its back, due to the unprecedented delays in getting our stores open. The delays in opening and lack of signage has created a loss in projected revenues of $349,000 coupled with unforeseen capital expenditures created by new building code requirements that did not exist when we began the expansion process.

The Jones Road store has finally received approval (6 months in the making) from the architectural control committee where the store resides,to purchase signage according to their exact specifications. Customers have been hard pressed to find the store with no signage.

Despite the challenges, the NAM Board and staff have worked diligently to offset the lost revenues. As we head down the final stretch of the fiscal year at NAM we feel reasonably certain that we will end the year in a deficit position of approximately $160,000.

At this time of unprecedented need, I wish to make a direct appeal to all our supporters that are contemplating an annual contribution to please do so now. Your immediate action will enable NAM to continue service at current levels.

There are a number of opportunities to provide support either through the Major Giving Campaign that is underway, by becoming a sponsor or supporter of our upcoming Jeans & Jewels gala to be held October 18, 2008 at the Marriott Waterway Hotel in The Woodlands or by pledging monthly to support all our programs and service. Be a part of the solution, make your secure donation now at www.namonline.org. If you help, we change lives for the better.

Thank you!
Carole Little

P.S. A gift of $1000 will provide a hot meal to more than 400 seniors. NAM currently delivers meals to more than 500 individuals each day to 21 zip codes in northwest Harris County.