The Downtown Mission of Windsor is shutting down one of its programs, citing a ‘critical financial crisis’. The financial crisis is because of a fall in donations and rising operation expenses. The Board of Directors has decided to close the Mission Promotional Products program as a result, effective Sept. 25. “This is an incredibly difficult time for the Downtown Mission, our staff, and the community members who rely on us every day,” said Rukshini Ponniah-Goulin, executive director of the organization. “Ending the Mission Promotional Products enterprise was a painful, but necessary decision to keep our doors open. We are doing everything in our power to navigate this crisis, but we must face the reality of our financial position. Moving forward, our absolute priority must be protecting our most vital, life-saving services.” The Mission is warning that there could be further adjustments made to ensure long-term viability of the organization. A comprehensive evaluation will be carried out, looking at all remaining programs and services, and could result in more cuts. Mission Promotional Products is a program that helped people overcome employment barriers and allow them to enter or re-enter the workforce. All money earned selling products went back into the Mission. Leadership is looking into all avenues of emergency funding, community partnerships, and cost-saving measures, the organization ensured. Last year, the total cost of the shelter was $4,397,940, with $3,055,298 needed from fundraising. “All costs are increasing; we are receiving notices of increase in price from suppliers and donations are down compared to last year,” said Ponniah-Goulin. “We are at the point now that there are no more cuts available for operational supplies, and we need to make difficult decisions on reduction of programs, services, and potentially beds if the trend continues.”
