The Washington Post published an letter to the editor from Mr. Treadwell in Saturday's paper. The letter (see below) points out a couple of significant inaccuracies communicated in The Post's coverage of our move.

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/04/28/AR2006042801915.html

Central Union Mission Isn't 'Cashing In'
Saturday, April 29, 2006; Page A16
The April 20 Metro story "Homeless Shelter Reaps $7 Million: Prime Site in NW Sold to Developer," about Central Union Mission's plan to sell its property at 14th and R streets NW and move to Georgia Avenue, referred to the mission as a "homeless shelter," only mentioning in passing that the mission is much more than that.
The mission distributes nearly $1 million in food each year, more than double its outlays for overnight shelter and long-term rehabilitation support for addicted and troubled men. It runs Camp Bennett for children and a Hispanic ministry. The new facility will be able to accommodate as many as 170 overnight guests, plus 30 residents in a rehabilitation program. The mission's chapel will seat more than 200, and its dining room will accommodate that same number at one sitting. The mission plans to have a medical and dental facility as well as a place for the community to provide job training for men transitioning out of homelessness.
Although 41 percent of the mission's clientele come from Ward 1, the mission also serves people from Virginia, Maryland and other parts of the District. The proximity of the Georgia Avenue-Petworth Metro station and the accessibility of 28 bus lines on Georgia Avenue will help clients get access to services.
The article said that "the mission is coming out a winner because it will pocket enough money to custom design a facility that meets all its needs." This seems to imply that the mission is, as D.C. Council member Jim Graham (D-Ward 1), put it, "Cashing in [on a] get-rich-quick scheme."
Although the revenue from the property sale will be of great assistance, the new facility is estimated to cost $15 million, while the property at 14th and R streets will yield $7 million, leaving $8 million to be raised through private donations and grants.
DAVID TREADWELL
Executive Director
Central Union Mission
Washington