Richard Rolke - Vernon Morning Star Published: July 04, 2009 12:00 PM
Vernon’s Upper Room Mission has more mouths to feed because of the recession. About 200 meals a day are served to people in need at the non-profit agency on 27th Avenue. “We’re starting to get a few new faces in,” said Chuck Harper, executive director. “That’s traditional in the summer but we’re also seeing an increase in the working poor.” Harper believes the current economic downturn has made it difficult for some individuals to survive. “People are having a hard time paying their bills and buying food,” he said. As a non-profit agency, the mission relies on public support either through contributions of food, cash or clothes that are then resold in the adjacent thrift shop. “I’m very impressed with how the community supports us,” said Harper. “Whether it’s homebaked pies or a bag of canned goods, it’s amazing.” Beyond serving meals, the mission also provides a number of other programs to local residents. They include typing skills, computer literacy, Narcotics Anonymous, life skills and sewing and crafts.About 100 people are accessing those services.
For more information about programs, call 549-1231. Or to donate food or clothes, drop by the Upper Room Mission at 3403 27th Ave.
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