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Business launches Sunrise Project to help those in need

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Orange Bay Company co-owners Rudy and Delight Morris have launched a campaign to get needy people who use the Salvation Army shelter breakfast for the year. Also pictured is Major Wayne Loveless, the executive director of the social services division of The Salvation Army.

A business with a big heart has launched a campaign to get needy people and struggling families enough food to brighten their day.Orange Bay Company, a Paget-based furniture store, is encouraging people to make donations to help fund The Salvation Amy’s breakfast programme.The campaign, called the Sunrise Project, aims to give residents at the emergency shelter a nutritious breakfast to get them started on the right foot.On a typical day the shelter gives out 40 morning meals.According to Major Shawn Critch, of the Salvation Army, more working-class families have been in need of food and shelter as the recession continues.“Over the last several months, the 54-bed North Hamilton shelter has been near capacity every night. We are definitely seeing the impact of the slowing economy in Bermuda. And while the circumstances under which individuals arrive at our door can vary widely, we offer everyone a safe place to sleep and a good meal. We try not to turn anyone away.”“What is surprising to many people is that some of the individuals who end up at our door are not unemployed.“More than ever, we find ourselves sheltering the ‘working poor’ people who have lost part of their income and have lost their homes because they can no longer afford their rent. We are grateful to Orange Bay Company for their efforts to help us raise funds to feed every resident of the shelter, no matter what their circumstances. I know it will help bring sunshine and hope into the lives of many.”The Orange Bay company, which has been hosting an annual fundraiser since it opened its doors in 2009, is calling on businesses and individuals to make a donation.Store co-owner Delight Morris said: “With the Sunrise Project, we’re calling upon everyone who has the means to bring a little more sunshine into the lives of our neighbours who, for reasons of financial, mental or domestic distress, find themselves in need of emergency shelter.“We want to help ensure that everyone who uses The Salvation Army emergency shelter during the next year will have the opportunity to begin their day with a healthy meal.“That could be the extra boost they need to find a job, seek help, or otherwise make a fresh start in their lives.”A gift of $60 will feed someone breakfast for a month; while a donation of $720 will be enough for one person for an entire year.Those who give $720 will be acknowledged in an advertisement and on a commemorative plaque that will hang in the shelter’s dining room.But any amount will be accepted, said Mrs Morris: “Every little bit will help”.Those interested in participating in the Sunrise Project should call 504 5400 or e-mail info[AT]orangebaycompany.com.