Efforts are underway to ensure the Upper Room Mission can serve the public once the doors reopen.
A local couple has launched a campaign to collect non-perishable food items for the mission, which is closed because of flooding caused by a broken water pipe.
“They will store the food until we are up and running again,” said Lisa Anderson, URM spokesperson.
Drop-off locations for the campaign are the Real Canadian Wholesale Club, Nexus B.C., Remedy’s RX, Ferrer Rentals and Elevation Motor Sports.
Other than the above mentioned drop-off locations, though, the Upper Room Mission is currently not accepting food donations because it does not have storage.
Cash donations are being sought to help replenish the food stock.
A trust account has been set up at VantageOne Credit Union, and donations can be made at any VantageOne Branch. The account number is 943555. Year-end tax receipts will be issued.
Repairs at the mission could take six to eight weeks to complete.
Because the Interior Health Authority has closed down the URM kitchen, breakfast (9 a.m.), lunch (noon) and dinner (4 p.m.) will be served at the People Place. Those in attendance can use the back stairwell to access food services. Those with mobility issues can use the front entrance/elevator. URM will open its washroom facilities during meals.
Restaurants and other businesses are still being sought to provide food and serve meals while the mission is closed.
“The schedule is filling up fast but the week of Dec. 14th is still open,” said Anderson.
For more information or to donate, call 250-549-1231 local 29 or e-mail lisa.anderson@vernonurm.org.