FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
– Thursday, October 5th 2023 –
Thanksgiving for Thousands At Union Gospel Mission
Recently released Homeless Count Numbers & Growing Food Insecurity Confirm Massive Increase in Need
(Vancouver, B.C.) – With more than 4,800 people currently experiencing homelessness in Metro Vancouver and as food insecurity continues to creep into homes across Metro Vancouver, Union Gospel Mission (UGM) is providing a space for folks to break bread, without breaking the bank.
“Our Thanksgiving meal is an opportunity for us to share how grateful we are for our Downtown Eastside (DTES) community – to infuse joy, and to begin weaving threads of hope.” Nicole Mucci, UGM Spokesperson. “For so many of our neighbors facing poverty or experiencing homelessness, this free turkey dinner with all the fixings is a space to connect with friends during a season that can feel isolating for many.”
Throughout 2023 soaring costs and ongoing crises continue to drain the limited resources of many living in the Downtown Eastside (DTES) neighbourhood. Demand for a variety of UGM's essential services have increased, keeping in line with the staggering increase in people experiencing homelessness across Metro Vancouver. For some, a hot, nutritious meal may not be an option, on top of the rising cost of living – and for others it’s already squeezed them out of their homes.
“Anecdotally, we’ve seen more people are struggling from every angle than ever before. They share their stories with us each time they come for a meal or shelter stay,” says Mucci. “The heartbreaking numbers released in the 2023 Homeless Count, shed light on what we’ve been seeing firsthand. We aren’t deterred by growing need, our goal remains to continue supporting our neighbors in whatever struggles they face, and to find hope in their lives, this Thanksgiving and beyond.”
MEDIA EVENT DETAILS
Date: Monday, October 9th 2023
Time: Media wishing to attend are asked to arrive at 11:15am
Where: 601 East Hastings, Vancouver
- Please RSVP to nmucci@ugm.ca
- Upon arrival at 601 E Hastings, please enter UGM Reception where you can sign in at the Media Desk.
- Media are welcome to attend the Thanksgiving meal between 11 AM & 12:30, and we request arrival at 11:15 AM if possible.
- If you’d like to attend the turkey carving & preparation on Saturday, October 7th at 9:15 AM please contact Nicole ASAP.
THE MEAL
- 2000 lbs of Turkey
- 750-800 lbs Mashed Potatoes
- 250 litres Gravy
- 750-800 lbs Vegetables
- 250 litres Cranberry sauce
- 575 Pumpkin pies
CONTACT
Nicole Mucci
Media & Communications Manager
Cell: (778) 999-3985
nmucci@ugm.ca
ABOUT UNION GOSPEL MISSION
Union Gospel Mission has been feeding hope and changing the lives of men, women, and families for over 80 years. Through its eight locations in Metro Vancouver and the Fraser Valley, UGM offers an intentional continuum of care through outreach, meals, emergency shelter, alcohol and drug recovery, affordable housing, and career development. The heart of UGM is to demonstrate God’s abundant love, and provide opportunities for healing, transformation, and integration into healthy communities and toward brighter futures. To learn more, visit UGM.ca.
