There’s no summer off for those struggling to make ends meet or those helping them.
Between 350 and 400 people a day are accessing meals at Vernon’s Upper Room Mission.
“It’s been steady but we’re also seeing new faces, especially at the end of the month when incomes become stretched,” said Lisa Anderson, executive director.
“We’re seeing a wide variety of people.”
Among those walking through the front door are families, the homeless and transients.
But there is a growing demographic looking for a hot meal and some compassion — seniors.
“Our staff and volunteers are playing a lot of Scrabble and cards,” said Anderson referring to the seniors who use the mission as a drop-in centre.
Seniors are also increasingly accessing the day-old produce and bread to take home.
Anderson says many people can’t afford food because of limited incomes and the escalating cost of housing.
Currently, the resources needed to sustain the mission — food and money — are remaining stable.
“We are getting more donations of produce so we’re giving away fresh cherriesa and peaches,” said Anderson.
During July, the mission hosted the UnderAWARE campaign in the hopes of collecting underwear for those in need and 1,800 pairs were received.
“There was a fantastic community response and our guests are really grateful,” said Anderson.
The mission recently held an open house so local residents could learn more about the agency.
Food and financial donations can be dropped off at the Upper Room Mission, 3403 27th Ave., Monday to Friday between 9 a.m. and 6 p.m.
