As temperatures drop, the Upper Room Mission in Vernon is providing a safe and warm place to sleep for those experiencing homelessness.
The Mission is opening its Temporary Winter Shelter Mat Program, offering people a reprieve from the elements during the coldest months of the year.
“Recognizing the increased vulnerability of the homeless population during colder months, the Upper Room Mission has expanded its services to ensure that everyone in our community has access to shelter, warmth, and sustenance,” the mission said in a press release.
The new service was made possible through the support of local donors, the Foord Family Foundation and BC Housing.
The program started Nov. 8 and will run until March 31.
Anyone who needs a shelter is welcome. Registration for staying at the shelter is from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. every day.
Starting Dec. 1, the mission will have 15 beds. There are currently 10 beds and a waitlist is available.
The shelter will operate from 10 p.m. to 7 a.m. during the winter season.
Shelter guests will receive a meal and snack in the evening when entering the shelter and a simple breakfast before regular services begin.
As Upper Room Mission is a dry facility, no substances are allowed inside the building at 3403 27th Avenue. The goal is to offer an alternative safe space with reduced exposure to narcotics.
Guests at the shelter will receive access to the mission’s social worker to get help with the challenges they face in leaving homelessness or addiction behind. The Mission also collaborates with the existing Turning Points shelter and other community partners to ensure people are getting connected to the resources they need.
“The Upper Room Mission believes that every individual deserves love, dignity and warmth, especially during the winter months when times are even more challenging. Homelessness has increased in our community,” the Mission said.
The latest homeless count identified 279 people who were experiencing homelessness in Vernon, compared to 224 people in 2021. Those numbers don’t capture the full transient population as numbers reported are on a voluntary basis, and the mission says the estimated number is nearly double that.
“Based on last year’s experience with people suffering during the winter months, we wanted to support our community with an additional safe and warm shelter during the winter months,” said Jacco de Vin, executive director of the Upper Room Mission. “With 15 available beds each night, we will not be able to help everyone still outside, but we hope we can continue making a difference in the lives of those who do stay with us.”
For more information about the Winter Shelter Program, volunteer opportunities, or how to contribute, contact Jacco de Vin at
Upper Room Mission is a Vernon-based non-profit that works to provide essential services and support individuals facing homelessness, poverty and isolation, promoting long-term solutions and advocacy for systemic change.
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