For 44 years, the Upper Room Mission in Vernon has been at the forefront of supporting individuals facing poverty, homelessness, and addiction-related challenges. Traditionally operating as a daytime drop-in center and soup kitchen, the Mission has expanded its services in recent years, partnering with BC Housing to offer emergency winter shelter. Now, in a major step forward, it is nearing completion of renovations with the goal of providing long-term shelter, offering 24 additional safe beds per year in Vernon.

In addition to expanding shelter services, the Upper Room Mission has partnered with The Social Planning and Research Council of B.C. and UBC Okanagan’s Centre for Homelessness Research to conduct Vernon’s first-ever comprehensive community mapping project. This initiative aims to identify gaps in services, housing, and care to help shape the Mission’s future development plans. Early findings highlight a critical need for more low-income, transitional, and supportive housing in the city.

A Step-by-Step Journey to Stability

“As a frontline resource in the fight against homelessness, we believe our greatest contribution—alongside our community partners—is to help individuals rediscover their dignity and worth. Our goal is to guide people on a step-by-step journey from the streets to a stable life, equipping them with the skills needed for long-term success. Our work extends beyond providing food and clothing; we are implementing a data-driven strategy to create lasting change for those struggling with homelessness, addiction, and poverty.”

Expanding Transitional Housing: A Critical Next Step

A key component of this strategy is increasing the “Transitional Housing” capacity in Vernon. This housing model, combined with recovery programs and partnerships, provides temporary, supportive housing for individuals experiencing homelessness, aiming to help them gain stability, sobriety and transition to permanent housing. Currently, this type of housing is not readily available in Vernon.

Recognizing the urgent need for expanded services, the Upper Room Mission’s Board and leadership have committed to making their properties (3403, 3405, and 3407 on 27th Ave.) available for future development. These projects will address critical service gaps and maximize the impact of reducing homelessness in Vernon.

Building Partnerships for Lasting Change

The Upper Room Mission recognizes that reducing homelessness requires collaboration. While committed to being a significant partner in addressing this crisis, the Mission acknowledges that it cannot solve every challenge alone. Its focus is on strengthening partnerships with service providers across the Okanagan to help close the gaps currently affecting Vernon.

Engaging the Community & Next Steps

The Mission is currently in the early stages of planning, research, and funding acquisition and welcomes community input. City Council members and community leaders are invited to tour the facility and learn more about its new vision and strategy.

Additionally, once the new shelter is complete this spring, the Mission will host an open house for local business leaders and members of the Downtown Vernon Association to gather feedback and collaborate on the path forward.