Vernon residents are being urged to help keep the less fortunate warm this winter.
Cold temperatures arrived early and that is proving to be a challenge for clients of the Upper Room Mission.
“With the weather changing so quickly, we saw a dramatic increase in the number of people accessing our services and needing extra supports,” said Lisa Anderson, co-executive director.
Demand is so high, the mission handed out its last pair of gloves Monday morning.
“Right now, we are needing gloves, toques and scarves,” said Anderson.
Other pressures are also arising at the non-profit agency.
“We served around 100 people at breakfast Monday. We’ve been averaging about 70 for breakfast,” said Anderson.
“We are also seeing new faces coming in for a hot meal and assistance.”
The number of people accessing the drop-in program in between meal times has also increased because of the cold weather.
“We are offering more activities such as bingo, which has been a huge success, arts and crafts and movie days, and we will be offering more in December,” said Anderson.
Besides warm clothing, the mission is seeking monetary donations.
To donate, drop by the Upper Room Mission at 3403 27th Ave. or call 250-549-1231 ext. 102.
richard@vernonmorningstar.com
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