My contact for the Orlando Union Rescue Mission informed me that the board would not agree to have their charity publicized with this event, nor send a representative to collect the donated items during the event. The reason being is that they are a non-profit and they did not want to run the risk of being associated with a political event.
She apologized profusely, because she had given me the ok and didn't think it would have been denied, but the attorney on their board brought up that point.
So.
We agreed that we will not announce their name in any, way, shape, or form. The donation drive can be publicized as "benefitting local homeless outreach" or something to that effect. When the event is over, OURM will come by and pick up the goods.
What this means is that we will need a volunteer to recieve the items as they are being dropped off by participants. The table will be provided. we will need a bin and a sign saying "Donation Drop-Off Here" or something like that.
Suki,...thanks for the headsup. As you can imagine, I'm quite disappointed. I'm curious if other cities are having this issue. I'll hold back my true opinion about this until you and I can talk on the phone. I'll call you tomorrow.
Update:
The OURM will gladly recieve non-perishable food items in addition to personal hygiene items. Here was my contact's reply:
Absolutely! Between both Divisions, we serve 9 meals a day, 365 days a year – over 235,000 total. Any food items to supplement our already stretched food budget would be greatly appreciated. Thanks for putting the word out!