June 06, 2014 - 12:37 PM
Kelowna, BC - Contrary to popular belief Kelowna's Gospel Mission is busiest in the summer. And it seems this year will be even busier.
Already five days into June and Kelowna’s Gospel Mission is over our 90 bed capacity, and meals have risen dramatically in the three weeks.
Part of our mission is to "provide assistance to all" and while Kelowna's Gospel Mission will not deviate from that, we are making strategic plans to deal with what already is a record breaking beginning to the summer season.
Director of Development James Gleghorn considers the summer. "It's only the beginning of June, and we are at capacity and have had to put mats down to serve the overflow. The higher numbers are concerning, but we will make sure that everyone who needs assistance will receive it. The support of the community is, and always has been strong."
Due to the Okanagan's natural and strategic placement between major centres like Calgary, Edmonton and Vancouver, Kelowna attracts workers keen for employment. The first crops are still weeks away and when those seasonal workers arrive we will see another huge influx of people needing help and it will further strain our abilities to house and serve those in need.
In addition to basic emergency services like shelter and meals, Kelowna's Gospel Mission provides Outreach and Case Worker support for guests which include employment and housing support. During the hot summer months Kelowna's Gospel Mission becomes a refuge for at-risk guests who may suffer from heat related illnesses.
News from © iNFOnews, 2014