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(TORONTO) A local business can't sit idly by while a nearby historic church is forced to close its doors because of financial pressures. That's what Tom Mihalik believes. He's the owner of Tom's Place, a popular store on Baldwin Street in Kensington Market, specializing in top quality business attire for men and women at discount prices. Mihalik says, "St. Stephen's is a neighbour, and I want to help them because they do tremendous work here providing food and shelter, and other kinds of help to people who desperately need it."
St. Stephen's has one last chance to pay off its debts, otherwise the 147-year-old church could be forced to close as early as September. That's the inspiration for the Last Chance Sale to be held at Tom's Place these last two weeks of August. Mihalik says it's also the last chance for customers to purchase men's business suits at the incredible price of four for the price of one. Tom's Place will donate a portion of all the Last Chance Sale proceeds to the Save St. Stephen's Fund. Mihalik also hopes the event will raise awareness of the church's plight. Customers can also buy Save St. Stephen's T-shirts for $20, with all proceeds to the Save St. Stephen's Fund. St. Stephen's Parish is in Kensington Market, well-known as the first stop for generations of immigrants that came from around the world, including Tom Mihalik's father, William, who opened the original store in 1958. St. Stephen's serves three congregations with services in English, French and Spanish. The parish focuses on providing services to those in need, including breakfast programs, and the Out of the Cold program, which offers shelter to the homeless during winter. St. Stephen's owes a large debt to the Anglican diocese, which has refused further help. If the congregation is unable to meet its financial obligations, the diocese could force the congregation to vacate the building by September 30. The future of the building remains an open question. Tom Mihalik holds up a T-shirt that says, "St. Stephen's, Once Burned, Twice Shy." He admits, "I'm not sure what that means, but the building did burn down and was rebuilt. St. Stephen's has survived this long, and it's a vital part of this community. The Last Chance Sale is the least we can do to help keep St. Stephen's alive." |
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For more information: Mike J. Phillips, MVP Marketing Tel: (416) 235-0194 o Fax (416) 239-4524 o Email: mike@mvpmarketing.ca Martha Cunningham, Save St. Stephen's Fund Email: ststanglican@yahoo.ca |