news-record.com

GREENSBORO — The Feast of Caring fundraising event Thursday yielded nearly $15,000 more than in 2009.

Greensboro Urban Ministry’s 19th annual Feast of Caring at First Baptist Church raised $89,230 in donations and garnered 1,934 pledges from people in attendance. That's compared to last year’s $75,810 and 1,857 pledges.

“Urban Ministry continues to be blessed by a caring and giving community," said executive director, the Rev. Mike Aiken, in a news release.

"Even during these very difficult economic times, people dug deep in their pockets to give. I can’t believe we nearly raised $90,000 tonight!"

The nonprofit needs to raise half of its $3.4 million budget by the end of the year, he said. Aiken hopes the giving will continue at this pace, and people will buy the Mangum Holiday Cards as an alternative gift.

The 2010 Honor Card by artist Bill Mangum portrays the friendship of Randy Judd and Howard Webb — a special bond between a homeless person and a caring volunteer.

The card entitled “Everybody Needs Somebody” was unveiled at the Feast of Caring and is now available for a donation of $5 or more per card at the following locations:

• Barnes & Noble Booksellers (Friendly Center, 3102 Northline Ave.)
• Leon's Style Salons
• Scissor Talk (2823 Spring Garden St. Ste. H)
• William Mangum Fine Art Gallery (2166 Lawndale Drive)
• Urban Ministry business office (305 West Lee St.)
• Many area congregations