GLOUCESTER EMERGENCY FOOD CUPBOARD: Minutes of Board Meeting, January 20, 2010

CHAIR: Don Collar

PRESENT: Jim Bogues, Marjorie Gardner, Valerie Hall, Linda Lalonde, Pauline McNally, Tracy Martineau, Marion Washington

REGRETS: Ann Frederking, Vern Greenshields, Pat O’Driscoll, Natasha So

STAFF: Gwen Bouchard

The minutes from the November meeting were approved on a motion proposed by Pauline and seconded by Jim.

1. Presentation: Ruth Torok, Jasmine Thymeless Gardens

- In addition to a slide show, Ruth gave a brief presentation and answered questions.

- The goal for the plots is that a family of 4 can sustain themselves for a year.

- They estimate 8-15, 10 x 17 plots.

- March is registration month and they will be looking at a small fee.

- A list of expectations does include concerns GEFC had previously raised, including parking.

2. Business Arising

- Intellectual Property belonging to John Nelms who worked on our data base: An email has been received and this issue is considered covered.

- Computer: Only 1 computer can be set up while moving from floppy system. Second computer will be set up as Tony has time. Thank you certificate will be given.

- Personnel Committee: Vivien to arrange (see previous minutes).

- Food Bank AGM: Pat not present, but Gwen has information in her report.

3. Executive Coordinator’s Report, Gwen Bouchard

- Average increase over period June – December 2008 as compared to 2009 indicates a 13% increase in number of visits.

- Although we distributed fewer letters, we received more donations this year, notably through Canada Helps. Final numbers will be available next meeting. Schools collected more this year as well.

- In terms of our City Grant, we will not receive an increase but looks positive that we will receive same as last year.

- The database is going smoothly although still some glitches. All information now entered in Access.

- Food For All announced dates. Pauline will not be here February or March. Gwen will pass on contact information for Pauline and Tracy.

- Card will be posted to Haitian clients from Board.

- AGM set for April 28 at 7 PM. Ruth Torok will be the speaker.

- Gwen has arranged a co-op student to assist with the website and general administration 5 hours/week next semester.

4. Treasurer’s Report, Jim Bogues

- Having acquired QuickBooks, we can look forward to reports with more flexibility and detail.

- Increase noted in fundraising for 2009 as compared to 2008.

- Not all interest has been included in revenue so these numbers can expect to change. There will be other adjustments as well.

- Charity Tax Return required some additional paperwork on part of directors.

5. New Business

Linda will attend Centre for Voluntary Sector Research and Development 10^th Anniversary.

The meeting was adjourned at 8:00 p.m. on a motion proposed by Marjorie and seconded by Tracy. The next meeting is set for February 17^th at 7:00 p.m.