When giving tours of the Center’s Blue Neighborhood of preschool classrooms, Sister Berta often says, “This is the part the bank owns.”

      Though she says it with a twinkle in her eye, there’s an element of truth in her remark. Operation Breakthrough is still working to retire debt related to the acquisition of the derelict buildings north of the center. The largest of those buildings – often a magnet for crime and vagrants in the neighborhood – went through condemnation, and Operation Breakthrough paid the appraised value, tore the building down and proceeded with construction of playgrounds and parking. Upon appeal of the appraisal, the cost of the property more than doubled. Operation Breakthrough now has nearly $1.9 million left to raise in order to pay off the associated debt.

     The monthly interest payments drain funds that could otherwise be used in direct service to families.

     “It’s taking money away from our children,” says Sister Corita.

    Center supporters, such as board president Steve Millin, often lament the fact that the debt is a worrisome burden for Sisters Corita and Berta.

     “They have given their lives, their very being, to create and maintain this safe haven to protect, educate and uplift our children,” Steve says. “If only we could remove this crushing debt from their shoulders and leave their legacy debt-free.”

     Contributions in any amount will be a real help. Please mark checks “Down with the Debt” and mail them to Sister Corita Bussanmas, Operation Breakthrough, 3039 Troost, Kansas City MO 64109. If you would like Operation Breakthrough to be part of the legacy of a loved one, as well, please call Sister Corita at 816-329-5210. There are memorial and other naming opportunities available for gifts of $10,000 and above.

     “If there is anyone out there who would like to have a beautiful building full of wonderful children named after them, we would love to hear from them,” says Sister Berta with that trademark twinkle in her eyes. “If someone wants to pay off our debt, I will personally hang a sign with their name on it on the outside of our building.”