Back in 2009, we announced that Canadian Web Host had donated $5,000 to Union Gospel Mission. Over two years later and we’re still supporting this wonderful, local, non-profit organization. With the year coming to a close we’d like to take a look back at 2011. It’s now December and the weather has significantly gotten colder over the past few weeks. When the weather drops, it becomes harder and harder for those less fortunate who are on the streets to make it through the winter. We feel fortunate that we have the basic necessities here at home, however, our minds turn towards those who lack those basic needs. UGM is a terrific, resourceful non-profit to get involved with. You can also connect with them on Twitter,  Facebook, or YouTube.

 

Outside of the new Union Gospel Mission building

About UGM

 

UGM is an urban relief organization based in Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside. With eight locations throughout Metro Vancouver and the city of Mission, UGM is positioned to help those who need it most. The heart of the Mission is to demonstrate God’s transforming love, ease the burden of the most vulnerable, rebuild the lives of the broken, and offer dignity to those who feel cast aside.

 

What is the mission of UGM?

 

Union Gospel Mission is determined to restore the God-given dignity of people by sharing and demonstrating the love of Jesus Christ, providing without discrimination:

  • Meals, shelter, outreach, and chaplaincy services that relieve suffering and renew hope
  • Life recovery programs that offer freedom from addictive lifestyles
  • Education and job preparation that equip for successful living
  • Affordable housing that fosters community and personal contribution
  • Preventative programs that build healthy families

 

Their slogan is: “Feeding hope. Changing lives.”

 

The other week, we had the opportunity to visit their new facility, have lunch with their staff, and learn more about the programs they offer. It’s truly amazing what they do. They start serving meals as early as 6:30 AM and serve hundreds of meals daily. They have many regular and drop-in volunteers. We learned that if you want to volunteer on a longer commitment basis, you have to attend a volunteer session. We also had the chance to tour some of their offices, classrooms, computer labs, and lodging facilities.

Check out some photos from our visit.