Businesses are being sought to provide meals in the Upper Room Mission after a broken pipe caused water damage in the mission Monday night.
“We are still looking for community support,” said Lisa Anderson, spokesperson.
It will take six to eight weeks to repair all of the damage in the mission.
A number of businesses have rallied to provide breakfast, lunch and dinner since the flood and more are needed.
“The phone has been ringing off the hook with support,” said Anderson.
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. The Upper Room Mission will open its washroom facilities during meals.
The People Place is committed to providing the temporary location until the Upper Room Mission has access to its kitchen for meals.
Ensuring service isn’t interrupted is critical as URM serves about 300 meals a day to seniors, the disabled, the homeless and working people facing financial challenges.
“Our clients are offering to help (with flood clean-up) and they are thankful for the businesses that have come forward,” said Anderson.
“We are relying on the community to help feed our clients. The response has been overwhelming.”
All of the food in the mission was contaminated by the water so cash donations are being sought so food can be purchased once the mission reopens. Food donations are not being accepted.
“We are looking for financial support because there is no place to store food donations,” said Anderson.
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.
URM staff have been working with their insurance company as restoration work proceeds.
For more information or to donate, call 250-549-1231 local 29 or e-mail lisa.anderson@vernonurm.org.
