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Mission makes changes to accomodate freezing weather

Jan 13, 2020 | 4:05 PM

A Vernon social agency that provides meals and other services for the homeless says it’s trying to do its best to make sure their guests stay warm during this cold snap.

Parker Crook, media and events coordinator with the Upper Room Mission on 27th Ave., says that includes keeping their building warm and safe, and making sure clients have enough blankets and winter gear when they leave.

“Of course, to do that, we do need some help. We need more blankets and hand warmers specifically, as well as jackets, tuques, gloves, scarves, warm socks, everything like that,” Crook told Vernon Matters.

Crook says they are keeping their doors open a bit longer during the cold spell, without the usual mid-day closure from 11:30 a.m. to 12 p.m., and again from 1 to 2 p.m.

“We usually close down in the afternoon, but for this cold snap we are keeping our doors open.”

The agency’s normal hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

“We are trying to open a few minutes early when we can this week to let people come in and warm up as early as possible,” Crook added.

Crook says they are seeing more people coming in the morning, and staying for most of the day.

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