GLOUCESTER EMERGENCY FOOD CUPBOARD: Minutes of Board Meeting, November 17, 2004

In Attendance: Jim Bogues, Don Collar, Glenda Dare, Ann Frederking, Marjorie Gardner, Vivien Runnels, Marion Washington, Brian Wright, Lesa Brown, Pauline McNally, Pierre Proulx, Dave Thompson, Nadim Barsoum.

Regrets: Nadia Delbani, Liz Hong-Farrell, Huguette Jean-Francois, Bill Bentley, Dave Prebble.

• Brian is still in the process of trying to make successful contact with the Muslim Community.
• A complete computer system has been donated and Ann will research the value and issue a tax receipt.
• Ann has a lead on data entry volunteers and will follow up.
• Brian has indicated The Star community paper is not giving the GEFC publicity even though contact was made.
• Brian is to advertise the upcoming Choirfest as a fundraising event for the GEFC. The ad is to be published prior to November 28.
• The Personnel Committee draft policy report is under review and will be tabled at the next board meeting in January.

Operations Report
Ann Frederking presented the report.
• xmas exchange referrals have commenced
• beginning Dec 8-10 $25.00-$30.00 turkey vouchers will be given out to clients.
• Ann indicated her replacement should be on board by next xmas season to gain experience in the busiest season.

Community Outreach Report
Brian Wright presented the report.
• The Board discussed the geographical area of the food cupboard's clients and donors. The importance of keeping the awareness up in the community is most important as ensuring contact is made with all schools for their participation in fundraising activities.
• A $5000.00 donation was received from Gloucester High School. Brian indicated it was donated to the school from the management or owner of the Donald St. building. Brian will follow up to ensure a thank you letter goes to the High School and to the original donor of the $5000.00.
• Brian indicated The Magical Village is on schedule but will be smaller than last year.

Treasurer's Report
Jim Bogues presented the report.
• The financial status is in good order. Jim advised that Visa fees may go up unless we move to an electronic system. He will complete an analysis to determine if it's warranted and will report back by March.