There’s been a slight reprieve for Vernon’s Upper Room Mission.
A federal grant will allow the non-profit to hire two summer students, meaning it will be open to clients between meals for 10 weeks.
“I anticipate we will be able to reopen the between meals beginning May 23 or sooner,” said Rick Lavin, executive director.
“The mission will be open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. We will serve breakfast at 9 a.m., lunch at noon and dinner at 5 p.m.”
The mission recently had to restrict access to the building outside of meal service because a $100,000 provincial gaming grant was lost.
That has resulted in concerns about clients congregating downtown, as well as other issues.
“We recognized the impact that our not being open has had on our clients, the community, and our partners. We are very happy that we will be able to re-open,” said Lavin.
“We plan to take the next 10 weeks to restructure our services and source alternative funding.”
Summer student applications are currently being sought from individuals under the age of 30, who attended school full-time this year and are returning to a post-secondary school after the summer.
“We would prefer a student enrolled in a related field of study,” said Lavin.
While the loss of the gaming grant has created challenges, Lavin says the community has rallied behind the mission.
“We continue to enjoy outstanding relationships with all of our elected officials,” he said.
“Special thanks to MP Mel Arnold, MLA Eric Foster, Mayor Akbal Mund and Coun. Juliette Cunningham for their assistance over the past few weeks. The Upper Room Mission is committed to feeding the hungry.”