There’s an old saying that you don’t know how good you had it until it’s gone. Hopefully, those who frequent the Upper Room Mission have become familiar with the phrase since the non-profit organization closed its doors Wednesday. The board of directors took the drastic action because of the escalating concern about drugs and other activities outside of the facility. And while such a move seems harsh, the Upper Room Mission staff and volunteers provide a valuable service to those in need. Because of that, they deserve respect and that obviously wasn’t occurring. It should be pointed out that the bulk of the people turning to the mission for a hot meal and help are law-abiding. It is the proverbial bunch of rotten apples spoiling it for the rest. Their illicit activities place everyone who frequent the area at risk — those truly in need, mission staff and volunteers and adjacent residents and businesses. Donations from the community could drop off if the conflict continues, and that could ultimately impact the mission's ability to operate.
Obviously the mission’s board of directors needs to determine what the next step is, and that is already happening. Photo registration will be required to receive assistance. But there also needs to be considerable responsibility on the part of those who turn to the mission. If you are out looking for trouble, don’t show up. And if you are a legitimate client and observe someone out of line, let them know that they aren’t wanted — that they are threatening your facility. Maybe peer pressure will send them a message loud and clear. In the end, those who rely on the mission have to decide if they are committed to keeping it open.
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