Local

Clara White Mission could lose funding

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — For some, food is taken for granted. At Clara White Mission, it's a staple. No one knows that better than Calvin Reed.

"It kept me alive initially when I was able to eat when I was on the street," he explained.  

Reed first started receiving Clara White's meals in 2004. Since then, he's gone through the culinary program, landed a job and found a place to live. When he found out the feeding program is in jeopardy, he was shocked. 

"If that happens that would be a tragedy because it helps so many people in so many different areas," he continued.  

When the city's finance committee axed funding from the public service grant, $82,000 of Clara White's support went with it. Eleven other nonprofits are impacted as well. Their leaders were strategizing Tuesday, trying to find a way to overcome the blow. 

"We feed anywhere from four to 500 people a day, seven days a week, so it will have a huge impact," Ju'Coby Pittman said.  

Pittman, CEO of Clara White Mission, said they need support now more than ever. 

"Jacksonville has always stepped up when there's an urgency in this community. We're hoping that we can count on Jacksonville to help us in our urgencies now." 

If you'd like to help or donate, go by the facility at 613 West Ashley St. or call 904-354-4162.