Public Rallies to Keep Mission Open
By Richard Rolke - Vernon Morning Star - February 17, 2008


Vernon’s tradition of compassion and giving will allow marginalized citizens to access a critical service.
Through a $20,000 infusion from the community, the Upper Room Mission will resume weekend programs Feb. 23 and 24 after being closed for three weekends in a row because financial resources were limited.
“The support is overwhelming,” said Andrew Yeo, manager.
The mission provides meals and other services weekdays, but Yeo says a lack of activities on Saturdays and Sundays was having a substantial impact on his clients.
“There isn’t a place for the homeless to go on the weekends,” he said.
“There is the Saturday lunch at the Anglican church but nothing else.”
The United Way has contributed $10,000, while about another $10,000 has been pledged by area churches.
Linda Yule, United Way executive director, expedited the grant process once she became aware of the situation.
“It’s needed and a basic service required in the community,” she said.
Also providing assistance was Sean Wong, Salvation Army pastor, who contacted churches in the area.
It takes about $1,000 to keep the mission open for a weekend, so the donations will cover the costs for about five months.
Besides meals, the mission offers counselling and helps clients find homes and jobs. There is is also a range of programs such as life skills and computer literacy.
“If anyone wants to get into drug or alcohol detox, we have a counsellor that we keep in contact with,” said Yeo.
By being open seven days a week, the mission also helps keep many of its clients from just hanging around downtown, a situation that creates concern for some residents.
“On any given weekend, you could walk down main street and see our people. This gives them something productive to do,” said Yeo.