Dear Friends,
A few weeks ago I sent you a letter about the new kitchen exhaust system that will soon be installed in our largest Marist Brothers’ retirement home. I wrote that the project’s total cost – a whopping $30,875 – is far beyond what I’d budgeted!
It seems that building codes have drastically changed since we installed the old kitchen exhaust fan many years ago. Today, an industrial exhaust system’s ductwork must be vented to the outdoors at each floor level. As you can see in the photo, our old system travels four stories, from the kitchen to the rooftop, and there’s no venting on floors two, three, or four. That means a great deal of very costly work in order to pass the final inspection!
Did you receive my first note? Since I’m still $15,237 short, I decided to reach out one more time. The Brothers and I could really use your help.
Yes, many Marist friends sent gifts, but last month’s letter did not bring the results I was praying for. I raised only a little more than half of the project’s total cost, and I’m growing more concerned with each passing day. I’ve squeezed every available penny from the budget, and I am not even close to the funds needed. Now it comes down to your generosity.
Perhaps my second letter will inspire you to send a gift. With less than 60 days remaining until I must pay the commercial kitchen ventilation company, time is of the essence.
Whatever you can afford – even if it’s only $25 – will be greatly appreciated.
I’m telling you more than I’ve told my Brothers, since I don’t want to worry them. But, to be honest, they’re a bright group, and they’ve caught on to this project’s magnitude.
Just the other day, I found Br. Mark outside, studying the horribly rusty, old ductwork that currently travels up our 4-story facility. He turned to me and said, “Updating all this will cost a fortune!”
I looked at my Brother’s furrowed, worried brow and replied, “I believe our Marist Family will help us with their support. But a prayer or two wouldn’t hurt.”
For just a moment, let’s turn to the two nickels tucked in with my letter. It’s my way of saying that I’m praying twice as hard for the money needed to pay for our kitchen’s exhaust system.
Please, send your gift today and help us raise the remaining $15,237!
When your gift arrives, the Brothers and I will want to thank God for your friendship and support. So, please, write your prayer intentions on the enclosed response slip and send the slip back to me along with your gift. We so look forward to including your intentions in our daily prayers.
Even before your gift arrives, I hope you know how much we value your help. Every Marist Brother – young and elderly – is so grateful for your generosity, and you are always in our prayers.
God bless you for caring so deeply,
Br. Hugh P. Turley, F.M.S.
Director of Development
