Media Centre
For all media inquiries, please contact Jeremy Hunka,
Public Relations Specialist at 604-996-1417 or [email protected].
Videos
Watch how the community has pulled together
Easter 2019
UGM's 78th annual Christmas Dinner
Terry's Story
Thank You!
No Vacancy (No subtitles)
Thanksgiving 2018
Summer BBQ 2018
#iWillCreate
#I Will
"NBA Star Serves Dinner at UGM"
UGM 2018
mothers_day_2016
UGM's 2016/2017 Annual Report
UGM's 77th annual Christmas Dinner
The Grace To Give Back
Encounter: Interactively Understanding Homelessness and its Barriers
Myke September Gratitude
Summer BBQ 2017
Union Gospel Mission's Summer Connect 2017
Expeditions
In The News
Find articles celebrating our community
Formerly Homeless Woman Says Goodbye to Building that Changed Her Life
Province Newspaper: UGM Serves last Christmas Dinner in 37-year-old building, makes way for expansion
Read ArticleUGM Says Tearful Farewell To Building; Makes Way For Expansion
City News: UGM Serves 2500 Christmas Meals During Fond Farewell
Students Tackle Problems After Tragedy
CTV: Engineering Students respond to calls for change from UGM; step up to save lives
Students Step Up to Prevent Deaths
Vancouver Sun: Students respond after UGM calls for change
Read ArticleGreyhound Cuts Leave Low Income Canadians Stranded
CBC: UGM says grieving families will face loss of mobility during family crises
UGM Expands Rescue Vehicle As Need Increases
Province Newspaper Front Page: More people in need in the suburbs
Read ArticleHousing Crisis at ‘Boiling Point’
Toronto Star: Report from UGM and University of British Columbia shows women and families most at risk
Read ArticleWomen and Families Hit Hardest By Affordability Crisis
CTV: Report from UGM and UBC shows housing crisis surging into suburbs
Read ArticleUGM Report Shows Housing Crisis Surging Into Suburbs
Globe and Mail: Report from UGM and UBC shows women and families being slammed by affordability crisis
Read ArticleUGM Serves 3,000 Thanksgiving Meals
Vancouver Sun: Downtown Eastside Survivor uses Thanksgiving to Help Others Around Globe
Read ArticleFormer Child Soldier Shares Story
Vancouver Sun: UGM Outreach Worker writes book about his struggle as a child soldier, addiction as a result of trauma, escape from homelessness, and new life helping others.
Read ArticleUGM Calls For Change After Rescue
CTV: Union Gospel Mission says at least 3 people have died in donation bins over past years
UGM Expands ‘Rescue Vehicle’ Outreach
Province Newspaper: Union Gospel Mission expands outreach further into suburbs
Read ArticleClimate Change Hits Poorest the Hardest
Star Metro: UGM says low income Canadians are most affected by extreme weather
Read ArticleHomeless at Risk of Heat Exhaustion, Heat Stroke
CBC: UGM responds as Vancouver’s first 2018 heat wave hits the homeless
Read ArticleUGM Taking Extra Steps to Protect Homeless During Heat Wave
Star Metro Vancouver: extreme heat puts homeless at risk, according to advocates at UGM
Read ArticleOp-Ed: Stigma a Silent Killer on the Street
The Province Newspaper: “Close your eyes and picture your last moments of life…”
Read ArticleDeath of Homeless Man at Tim Horton’s Sparks Housing Outcry
The Guardian: UGM says homeless man’s tragic death is a symptom of Vancouver’s housing crisis
Read ArticleHomeless Advocates Call For More Action After Death at Tim Horton’s
Breakfast Television: Union Gospel Mission says Metro Vancouver can and should do more for those in need (Scroll to 3:02)
Homeless Death Indicates Widening Front Line: UGM
Province Newspaper: Union Gospel Mission says Ted’s death was not an isolated incident
Read ArticleUGM Advocates for More Action on Homelessness Following Death
Star Metro: After a homeless man in his 70s passed away alone in a Tim Horton’s, UGM calls for greater action
Read ArticleMoms in Downtown Eastside Get Family Portraits
CBC: Happy Mother’s Day! Moms and Babies Given Free Professional photos by UGM
Read ArticleUGM Provides Free Family Portraits For Mother’s Day
Global BC: Moms and Babies in the Downtown Eastside Given Precious Photos
Read ArticleHomelessness on the Rise In Vancouver
Star Metro: UGM Meeting Greater Need as Homeless Population Grows
Read ArticleNBA Star Serves Vancouver’s Homeless
National Post: Jeremy Lin Surprises Homeless in Time of Need
Read ArticleFormerly Homeless Woman Helping Others
City TV National: Chloe Milne Helping to Rescue Others After Overdose
Formerly Homeless Woman Helps UGM Serve Thousands
News 1130: Union Gospel Mission Sees Surge in Women Asking For Help
Read ArticleUGM Sees Record Need During Homeless Count
Vancouver Sun: Union Gospel Mission taking extra measures to keep people safe
Read ArticleHomeless Count Expected to Exceed Last Year
Global BC Morning Show: UGM working to help the homeless during season of extreme need
Read ArticleUGM Rescue Vehicle Hitting The Streets
CBC: Twice each week, UGM’s mobile mission searches out people in Metro Vancouver who don’t have a home
Read ArticleExtreme Cold Puts Homeless At Risk
News 1130: UGM Offering Help to the Homeless During Extreme Cold
Read ArticleMore Shelter Spaces Open During Cold Snap
CTV News: UGM Says Cold Weather can be Deadly for Those on the Street
UGM Announcement a ‘Game-Changer’ for Women and Families
Vancouver Courier: Union Gospel Mission Expansion ‘Biggest in 75-Year History’
Read ArticleUGM to Construct New Building for Women and Families
CTV: Union Gospel Mission Building to Serve the Most Vulnerable
Read ArticleCharities Say Donations Change Lives Year ‘Round
News 1130: UGM says Year Long Donations Save Lives Long-Term
Read ArticleUGM Outreach Worker Gives Hope for Christmas
Global BC: Former Homeless Man Gives Christmas Celebration to Downtown Eastside
UGM Hamper Program Allows Family to ‘Shop’ for Christmas Needs
CBC: Jessica once relied on Christmas Hampers, now she’s giving back (Scroll to 55:16)
New model allows Christmas hamper recipients to shop for their family
Vancouver Metro: UGM Hamper Program with Focus on Choice and Dignity at Christmas
Read ArticleUGM feeds body and soul at 77th annual Vancouver Christmas dinner
Vancouver Sun: Close to 3,000 Christmas Meals Served in Metro Vancouver
Read ArticleUGM Meal Helps Save a Life
CBC: Former homeless man credits UGM Christmas dinner with saving his life
Read ArticleUGM Welcomes National Housing Strategy
CTV: Union Gospel Mission welcomes Federal strategy, reacts to long timeline
UGM Sends ‘Street Proof’ Backpacks to Fraser Valley
CBC: Union Gospel Mission, Wolfe Auto Group, and Citypak Project Partner to Expand Program
Read ArticleUGM Opens Extra Shelter Spaces
Vancouver Metro: Union Gospel Mission Brings in New Staff To Help Homeless
Read ArticleFormerly Homeless Artist Challenges Stigma
News 1130: UGM says homelessness is touching all corners of Metro Vancouver
Read ArticleUGM Weighs in on Marpole Protests
Global BC: City of Vancouver Hopes to Build 600 Modular Housing Units for the Homeless
Thousands Served Thanksgiving Meal
News 1130: UGM says needs of women & children consistent or growing
Read ArticleUnique Escape Room Draws International Attention
Province Newspaper: UGM’s Encounter escape room could move to Seattle, San Francisco
Read ArticleEscape Room Educates on Homelessness
Weather Network: immersive and education Escape Room reveals hidden barriers to escaping homelessness
Escape Room Illustrates Obstacles to Overcoming Homelessness
Vancouver Sun: UGM designs innovative advocacy campaign to counter homelessness
Read ArticleUnion Gospel Mission Responds to Record Heat
Vancouver Sun: Air quality advisory complicates heatwave
Read ArticleUGM Grills 5,000 Meals for the Homeless
Vancouver Sun: UGM gives taste of summer holiday to the Downtown Eastside
Read ArticleFree Glasses Give Opportunity to Children, Families
CTV News: UGM and Clearly partner to offer free prescription glasses in the Downtown Eastside
UGM Helps During Heatwave
Global News: Union Gospel Mission helps homeless during summer heat
Read Article44 Organizations Band Together to Help Homeless
Roundhouse Radio: UGM’s Summer Connect helps men and women connect to crucial services
Read ArticleHikers Overcome Homelessness Through Nature
Global News: UGM Program Uses Hiking to Help People In Their Recovery Journey
UGM Helps Men Hike Out Of Homelessness
The Province (front page): Union Gospel Mission program used the healing power of nature to help men overcome homelessness and addiction.
Read ArticleUnion Gospel Mission ‘Blown Away’ by #ChrissySentMe Support
Vancouver Sun: Acts Of Goodwill Inspired by Canadian Killed in London Terror Attack
Read ArticleChrissy Archibald Inspires Acts of Altruism
CTV: Donations Made to UGM in response to #ChrissySentMe
Union Gospel Mission Hosts Memorial For Overdose Victims
CTV: More than 500 Attend Interfaith Memorial to Honour Victims, Families and First Responders
Interfaith Memorial To Honour Overdose Victims
Metro: Hundreds Will Gather to Honour Victims, Families, and First Responders
Read ArticleUGM Volunteer says goodbye after 61 years
Global News: Jack Summerfield honoured after staggering 6 decades of volunteering
Read ArticleFormer Homeless Man Helps Others at Easter
Vancouver Sun: Hope (and coffee) served at UGM’s Easter Meal
Read ArticleHomelessness Jumps 30% in Metro Vancouver
Global News: Union Gospel Mission full as Homeless Crisis Grows
More than 3605 Homeless in Metro Vancouver
Vancouver Metro News: UGM seeing spike in demand amid homeless surge
Read ArticleHomeless Population Surges 30% in Metro Vancouver
CKNW: UGM discusses whom the homeless crisis is hitting hardest
Read ArticleHomeless Count Gathers Crucial Data
Vancouver Sun: UGM volunteers amoung thousands working in this year’s homeless count
Read ArticleHomeless Count Starts Today
News1130: UGM Says Lack of affordable housing pushing people to the street
Read ArticleMetro Vancouver Homeless Count Begins
CKNW: UGM says low vacancy rates and rising affordable rents are driving up homelessness
Read ArticleVancouver Food Bank Donations Being Sold
CTV: UGM says desperate people sometimes feel they have no other option
Solving Affordability Crisis Requires Rethink of Housing Policy
Vancouver Courier: UGM serving more seniors and young families as people ‘lose capacity’ in the face of surging prices
Read ArticleInnovative Housing Program ‘Piece of the Puzzle’
National Observer: UGM welcomes new mobile ‘shipping container’ affordable housing
Read ArticleVancouver Bankruptcy Ends Beloved Shoe Program
CBC Vancouver: Shoes would mean mobility, dignity and health for Downtown Eastside residents. (scroll to 19:30)
‘A big blow’: bankruptcy ends DTES shoe exchange
CBC: Hundreds of Downtown Eastside residents hope another company will step up.
Read ArticleMonth of Giving Back: Union Gospel Mission’s Lydia Home Program
Global News: Gina Harmsen and Karen Flanagan from Vancouver’s Union Gospel Mission explain how their 90-day alcohol and drug recovery program works.
UGM offers Christmas Hope Amidst Multiple Crises
News 1130: UGM Offers Survival Gear Along With Christmas Meal
Toques, Turkey handed out Amidst Cold Snap
CBC: UGM Serves Heaping Portions of Hope to Those In Need
Read ArticleUGM prepares for extreme temperatures
Arctic Outflow Warnings Spark Concerns For Homeless
Read Article7-year-old Boy Donates Birthday Money to Union Gospel Mission
Riker celebrated his 7th birthday by donating $85 to the homeless.
‘Street proof’ bags handed out to Metro Vancouver homeless
More than 750 bags distributed across Metro Vancouver, featuring anti-theft measures and built-in rain gear.
Read Article‘Streetproof’ backpacks help homeless fight off weather, theft
Union Gospel Mission and Citypak Project partner to distribute 700 bags across Metro Vancouver.
Read ArticleCourt Orders Homeless Tent City To Shut Down
UGM speaks with CBC about the need for systemic change to address homelessness. Interview begins at 52:30
Did the Abbotsford stabbing suspect fall through the cracks of our mental health system?
UGM helps offer insight into the mental health challenges facing Metro Vancouver
Read ArticleWe’re Teaming Up to Find Fresh Solutions for Homelessness
Vancouver organizations are coming together to solve the homeless crisis.
Read ArticleShelter From The Storm at UGM
Union Gospel Mission goes ‘above and beyond’ to protect people during series of storms.
Read ArticleVancouver Sun: Report Outlines Grim Reality of Homelessness in Vancouver
Union Gospel Mission and University of Victoria study suggests Vancouver’s housing crisis is pushing people into homelessness and preventing others from escaping homelessness.
Read ArticleGlobe and Mail Op-ed: The Link Between Affordability and Homelessness
Report from Union Gospel Mission and University of Victoria shows unaffordability pushing people into homelessness and preventing them from getting out.
Read ArticleNew Report Shows Vancouver’s Housing Crisis Driving Homelessness
Report by Union Gospel Mission and University of Victoria shows ‘new reality’ in Metro Vancouver.
Hungry and Homeless Offered Thanksgiving Meal Monday
Former homeless woman helps others on the street.
Read ArticleFormer Homeless Woman Gives Back at Thanksgiving
Last fall, Jenna was homeless in the woods near Squamish. This Thanksgiving, she helped serve more than 3,000 meals to others in need.
Read ArticleUGM To Serve 3,000 Thanksgiving Meals
More than 300 volunteers work to ensure everyone in Metro Vancouver has a holiday meal.
UGM Mom Thrilled to Meet Royal Couple
Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside residents excited for weekend’s royal visit
Read ArticleUnion Gospel Mission Responds to Surging Demand
How UGM is helping those in need in B.C., Alberta and beyond.
‘I would never want to reduce people’s dignity,’ says DTES tour guide accused of poverty tourism
UGM speaks about the need to safeguard the Downtown Eastside community.
Read ArticleTours of the Downtown Eastside: ‘Poverty pimping’ or compassion building?
UGM speaks out on a controversial tour operating in the Downtown Eastside.
Read ArticleWoman stuck in donation bin rescued by firefighters
Why a new trend has UGM concerned and how you can help.
Read ArticleWhy are job seekers from Alberta ending up in Vancouver shelters?
Organizations like Union Gospel Mission are seeing a surge in people coming from out of province.
Read ArticleVancouver shelters overflow, Increase in out-of-province shelter seekers reported; many out of work oil patch workers
Read ArticleUGM To Serve 5,000 Meals in Downtown Eastside
Union Gospel Mission hosts 17th annual Summer BBQ.
Read ArticleSaskatchewan policy on busing homeless to B.C. ‘ridiculous’, says Vancouver councillor
Saskatchewan government releases report after two men were offered emergency shelter at Union Gospel Mission.
Read ArticleUGM in urgent need of spring/summer clothing.
The mild weather in Vancouver has led more people to use the clothing room at Union Gospel Mission. Many of the clothes have been handed out leaving their clothing room severely short on shorts, jeans and any summer clothing.
Read ArticleSecret video captures confrontation between Surrey bylaw officers and homeless women
A video secretly filmed my a now former city of Surrey worker is raising questions about how bylaw officers interact with the homeless. After viewing the video the Union Gospel Mission says a better strategy is needed for city staff who are dealing with homeless people. UGM spokesperson Jeremy Hunka says while the video doesn’t tell the whole story the woman and her belongings should have been treated with more dignity.
Read ArticleFort McMurray evacuees share stories of escape
A relief plan has been put in place after the Fort McMurray wildfire. Union Gospel Mission stands by to help anyone who has come to Vancouver and is in need of help.
Vancouver homeless count up from last year
The most recent Vancouver homelessness count shows more people than ever are having a hard time finding a home.
Many homeless people in Vancouver have jobs
One of the key findings in a new report out this week on the homelessness rate in Vancouver may surprise you. It turns out some people staying in shelters are actually employed. In many cases, Jeremy Hunka with Union Gospel Mission says, those people are having to work longer to save up just to get into the housing market.
Read ArticleRecord number in emergency shelter beds pointing to a surge in city’s homeless
The beds at the UGM have been at capacity since the City of Vancouver asked them to open 20 additional beds – normally used in extreme weather conditions – on a nightly basis. Now, there are 72 shelter beds with 20 extra beds set up in their drop in centre.
Read Article
Vancouver shelter seeing unprecedented demand for services
Throughout January and into February Union Gospel Mission had record breaking demand for their emergency shelter and are seeing more and more people asking for help.
Read Article
Courage to Come Back: Time to change, he said, when he woke up to find his friend dead of an overdose
Knowing he wanted out Jemal came to Union Gospel Mission and asked to enter the rehab program, an act of surrender that changed his life forever.
Read ArticleCourage to Come Back: Former Ethiopian child soldier helps addicts on Downtown Eastside
Overcoming a crippling addiction to alcohol and drugs to now become the pastor of a local church. Jemal Damtawe spends his time in Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside helping others overcome their addictions.
Read ArticleExtended interview: Courage to Come Back award winner Jemal Damtawe
Former child soldier Jemal Damtawe talks about how he started abusing alcohol and drugs, and the frightening moment that forced him to turn to Union Gospel Mission for help.
Read ArticleCourage to Come Back: Life’s trials led to a mission
Jemal knew instantly that he wanted out. He literally ran to the Union Gospel Mission and asked to enter the rehab program, an act of surrender that changed his life forever.
Read ArticleUGM to feed thousands at their annual Easter feast
For the 27th straight year Union Gospel Mission opened its doors for an Easter feast. The dinner included 2,500 pounds of ham with 270 litres of pineapple sauce along with 900 pounds of scalloped potatoes.
Read ArticleUGM serves up thousands of meals for Easter
Union Gospel Mission served Easter dinner to more than 2500 people in the Downtown Eastside, and for one volunteer, it was a chance to see old friends
Read ArticleUnion Gospel Mission serves up Easter dinner to thousands
Union Gospel Mission served Easter dinners of ham, scalloped potatoes and frozen vegetables to more than 2500 people on Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside. The holiday meal is an annual tradition that brings together more than 200 volunteers to help serve these meals.
Read ArticleUnion Gospel Mission’s Easter meal is the first step in rebuilding broken lives
For Chad his first encounter coming to UGM was for a hot meal and it was a turning point for him. Either die or get help Chad came to UGM and today he’s eight years sober and is giving back by helping service Easter meals.
Read ArticleTwo homeless men arrive from Saskatchewan after being put on bus by social services
Two homeless Saskatchewan men given one-way bus tickets arrived safely in B.C. and were received by Union Gospel Mission and a Vancouver City Counsellor who will be helping them settle in Vancouver.
Read ArticleHomeless men bused from Saskatchewan to B.C. offered jobs by high school dropout turned CEO
After receiving a one way bus ticket from Saskatchewan to Vancouver Charles Neil-Curly and Jeremy Roy have been overwhelmed with the support they’ve received. UGM is continuing to work with them to make sure that they achieve their goals and find a stable place to call home.
Read Article
Homeless men from Saskatchewan given one-way bus ticket arrive in Vancouver
Charles Neil-Curley and Jeremy Roy arrived at Vancouver’s Pacific train and bus terminal after they were given one-way tickets from Saskatchewan to Vancouver. Union Gospel Mission welcomed them to Vancouver and connected them with the needed services, including shelter.
Read ArticlePress Releases
Follow our stories from
04/17/2019
Maple Ridge Woman Overcomes Trauma, Abuse, Addiction, and Attempted Suicide at Easter
Read Article06/12/2018
Canada Revenue Agency among 40 partners to join UGM’s ‘Summer Connect’ Event
Read Article10/05/2017
Former Homeless Man Helps Build Escape Room to Share Story, Inspire Action, Enhance Understanding
Read Article09/28/2017
Former homeless mortgage broker uses Thanksgiving holiday to help other professionals
Read Article06/13/2017
‘Summer Connect’ Brings Dozens of Life Changing Services To Union Gospel Mission
Read Article03/21/2016
Easter Dinner provides potential pathway out of poverty, homelessness and addiction.
Read Article02/09/2016
Union Gospel Mission and SHOES.COM provide footwear to those in need just in time for Valentine’s
Read Article10/06/2015
Union Gospel Mission and Clearly join forces to provide prescription glasses to those in need, marking World Sight Day on Thursday October 8th
Read Article10/01/2015
Union Gospel Mission to serve more than 3,000 Thanksgiving meals: Dinner provides hope and potential pathway to healing
Read Article09/10/2015
Event: Gratitude Live – Union Gospel Mission celebrates 75 years through story, music and community
Read Article08/13/2015
UGM partners with The 700 Club to serve 500 meals in New Westminster as part of the 18th annual summer BBQ
Read Article07/16/2015
DTES BBQ: UGM prepares to serve 5,000 meals, Concert Properties provides support & 75th birthday celebration
Read Article06/16/2015
UGM Hosts fourth Annual Summer Connect: DTES service providers seek to clear the path to stability
Read Article05/08/2015
UGM’s Sanctuary program builds the bridge of transition by supporting mothers in recovery
Read Article04/17/2015
All types of helping hands (& paws) recognized during National Volunteer Week
Read Article03/26/2015
From served to serving: one man shares how this Easter will be much different since finding housing at UGM
Read Article03/24/2015
Langley Turkey and Egg Farmers committed to helping those in poverty despite their economic crisis
Read Article02/11/2015
Walking a mile in their shoes: Local shoe company spreads the love across Canada to those most in need this Valentine’s
Read Article12/22/2014
Wind and Tide’s 2,000 preschoolers partner with UGM to provide Christmas hampers for 56 families this holiday season
Read Article12/01/2014
Union Gospel Mission to serve over 3,000 meals at 74th annual Christmas Dinner
Read Article11/20/2014
Union Gospel Mission opens Eastside Culture Crawl gallery to feature art and film created by DTES residents
Read Article11/05/2014
GotGinch? 5,000 pairs of underwear to be dropped at UGM as nation-wide ginch drop now reaches 225,000
Read Article10/21/2014
Union Gospel Mission to serve over 3,000 meals this Thanksgiving Monday, kicking off Homelessness Action Week
Read Article09/19/2014
Homelessness Action Week 2014: UGM presents documentary film on Downtown Eastside Program, Photo 101
Read Article07/23/2014
UGM partners with Concert Properties to serve 5,000 meals in the DTES as part of the 16th Annual Summer BBQ
Read Article06/23/2014
Grand-Opening: Official Opening ceremony for UGM’s newly renovated 616 East Cordova; mom’s with infants program announced
Read Article06/09/2014
Summer Connect: Downtown Eastside service providers ban together to offer tangible help, all under one roof
Read Article05/18/2014
Maintaining sobriety after struggling through years of addiction is no small feat, but if anything can motivate, it’s a mother-child bond.
Read Article04/10/2014
Easter Meal Provides a Chance for Change: Over 3,000 holiday meals to be served at UGM’s 25th Easter Dinner
Read Article03/19/2014
UGM Announces New Stabilization Program for Women Seeking Recovery from Addiction
Read Article02/26/2014
Union Gospel Mission partners with Crystal Hearing to provide free hearing tests; incentives offered
Read Article02/26/2014
Original Vancouver Canuck, Ernie Dougherty, selects UGM as charity of choice when honoured for years of service
Read Article02/07/2014
Unlikely couple finds love at Union Gospel Mission- it all started with a bus advertisement
Read Article12/12/2013
Table for 2000: First-rate dining in the streets of the DTES; UGM+Glowbal Collection restaurants partner to help this Christmas
Read Article12/07/2013
A UGM Christmas – Over 3,000 meals to be served this Sat, just one of many Christmas activities at the mission this December
Read Article12/04/2013
Over 3,000 meals to be served at Union Gospel Mission’s 73rd Christmas Dinner
Read Article11/27/2013
Potential Charity Scam in the Vancouver Area–be informed regarding a fraudulent canvasser
Read Article11/13/2013
Union Gospel Mission opens Eastside Culture Crawl gallery to feature art created by DTES residents; partners with Pivot and PHS
Read Article10/09/2013
Union Gospel Mission starts off Homelessness Action Week with Thanksgiving Meal, serving 3,000 meals to the DTES
Read Article10/09/2013
From Saturday October 12 to Sunday October 20, hundreds of visitors will hit the streets of the Downtown Eastside. Participating in Homelessness Action Week (HAW), they are investing two hours to learn about the neighbourhood and its history, guided by a local resident.
Read Article09/19/2013
GotGinch and Need Knickers to deliver 50,000 pairs of underwear to homeless shelters across Canada— UGM the first stop
Read Article09/12/2013
Residential school survivor who found recovery and reconciliation leads Nishga’a canoe on Tuesday
Read Article08/15/2013
Gallery Opening: Prominent Vancouver artists lend painting to bring hope, healing and recovery at Union Gospel Mission
Read Article07/08/2013
Downtown Eastside BBQ: UGM partners with Concert Properties to serve 6,000 BBQ meals, host kids’ zone
Read Article06/10/2013
Scotiabank runner beats the odds—from homeless and addicted to mentor, teacher and running group leader
Read Article05/21/2013
Connect Event: DTES Service providers amass to offer much-needed services under one roof (housing, employment, legal and more)
Read Article05/06/2013
Precedent-setting change in voter registration bring democracy, dignity, and a voice to the Downtown Eastside community
Read Article03/20/2013
UGM’s 24th annual Easter celebration: Charity prepares to serve 3,000 holiday meals to the Downtown Eastside community
Read Article02/06/2013
Union Gospel Mission Women’s Shelter celebrates one year, looks to the future
Read Article12/12/2012
Table for 2000: Christmas Block party and dinner hosted by UGM and Glowbal Collection Restaurants
Read Article11/26/2012
UGM to serve thousands of meals during its annual early Christmas dinner—each meal represents a story
Read Article11/08/2012
UGM’s fourth Eastside Culture Crawl gallery showcases photography, paintings, art from the downtown eastside community
Read Article10/29/2012
A small donation can make a big impact – running shoes helps partially paralyzed woman get mobile, safely
Read Article10/01/2012
Union Gospel Mission to serve over 3,000 meals this Thanksgiving kicking off Homelessness Action Week
Read Article09/24/2012
Homelessness Action Week-Special Downtown Eastside Walking Tour educates, gives dignified employment, creatively uses technology
Read Article08/30/2012
Notable artists contribute paintings for unique rotating gallery; bring hope to those struggling with addiction
Read Article08/29/2012
Union Gospel Mission manager and staff filling the role of wedding planners; first couple ever to be wed at New Westminster UGM
Read Article08/29/2012
GotGinch to deliver 35,000 pairs of underwear to homeless shelters across Canada—Vancouver the first stop
Read Article08/02/2012
Union Gospel Mission is pleased to announce that Jeffrey Baergen has been appointed Community Engagement Coordinator.
Read Article07/26/2012
UGM + Glowbal Restaurant Group to serve 5,000 meals at annual summer BBQ in Oppenheimer Park
Read Article06/29/2012
UGM’s President Emeritus awarded The Queen Elizabeth Diamond Jubilee Medal for 29 years of service on the downtown eastside
Read Article06/18/2012
UGM community members give back by running the Scotiabank 5K/Half-marathon this weekend
Read Article06/11/2012
UGM hosts Summer Connect Event: 30 vital service providers remove barriers to housing, employment; bring hope and help
Read Article06/02/2012
Union Gospel Mission thanks Polygon Homes and their employees for the generous donation of $130,650.
Read Article05/28/2012
Union Gospel Mission women’s day shelter is official—successful pilot project becomes official program
Read Article05/01/2012
Emily Carr University, Rennie Collection and Union Gospel Mission unveil art created for the Downtown Eastside
Read Article04/12/2012
Tag team: New Westminster resident and pup unique volunteers at UGM, find purpose
Read Article04/02/2012
Research shows that Canadians volunteer about 2.1 billion hours annually—the equivalent of 1.1 million full-time jobs. With around 5,000 active annual volunteers, Union Gospel Mission depends on help from the Greater Vancouver community to sustainably meet the needs of those struggling with homelessness, poverty and addiction.
Read Article03/27/2012
UGM’s dining room installations revealed as it prepares to serve over 3,000 meals this Easter
Read Article03/12/2012
Emily Carr University, UGM + Rennie Collection collaborate to bring art, education and healing to the Downtown Eastside
Read Article02/28/2012
Mission Community Foundation improves capacity at Mission’s Union Gospel Mission
Read Article02/21/2012
Opus Art Supplies donates over $8,000 towards Art from the Heart, Union Gospel Mission’s therapeutic art program.
Read Article02/06/2012
Union Gospel Mission is pleased to announce the opening of a day-shelter for women on the Downtown Eastside. This pilot project was developed in conjunction with the Downtown Eastside Women’s Center, a nearby emergency night shelter for women.
Read Article01/13/2012
Union Gospel Mission braces for influx of shelter-seekers as temperatures drop – warm donations needed
Read Article01/09/2012
In tough economic times, let’s embody hope–a message from Union Gospel Mission President Bill Mollard
Read Article12/15/2011
Just in time for Christmas, thousands of Downtown Eastside residents will enjoy a world-class event on Tuesday, December 20th when Union Gospel Mission hosts Table for 2000, a festive, free culinary feast made possible by the generosity and volunteer-time of celebrated local restaurant group, Glowbal Restaurants.
Read Article12/15/2011
The Glowbal Collection + Union Gospel Mission Set to Host Second Annual ‘Table for 2000’ Christmas Meal
Read Article12/12/2011
The Grey Cup to visit Union Gospel Mission–Those accessing resources from Union Gospel Mission in New Westminster will get a fun honour on Tuesday as the Grey Cup makes an appearance at the Mission
Read Article11/24/2011
Help-Portrait Vancouver: Over 40 photographers and 12 makeup artists & stylists will be giving a boost—and a portrait
Read Article11/17/2011
Uncovering Vision: UGM’s Culture Crawl event features photography and art by men and women on the Downtown Eastside
Read Article10/30/2011
Union Gospel Mission says that if June’s mail strike hits Vancouver, it will affect their organization—significantly if the strike becomes long-term.
Read Article09/29/2011
UGM kicks off Homelessness Action Week with all-day Thanksgiving Dinner served to thousands on the Downtown Eastside
Read Article09/22/2011
GOT GINCH? 2 guys + 1 RV + 35,000 pairs of ginch = incredible support for 10 homeless shelters across Canada
Read Article08/18/2011
Grand Opening: Quest Food Exchange now redistributing food, offering dignity at new Union Gospel Mission location
Read Article07/12/2011
BBQ in Oppenheimer Park to serve over 5,000 meals—UGM and Glowbal Restaurant Group partner to celebrate summer on the DTES
Read Article06/16/2011
Unique Father’s Day Story: Union Gospel Mission helps homeless father and son move from addiction to recovery and stability
Read Article06/09/2011
Union Gospel Mission discusses impact if Canada Post mail strike hits Vancouver
Read Article06/06/2011
Formerly homeless and drug addicted UGM graduate to run Scotiabank half-marathon; raising money to help others.
Read Article04/22/2011
First holiday meal at new UGM facility is expected to be the biggest yet as UGM prepares to serve 4,000 Easter meals.
Read Article04/13/2011
New Downtown Eastside building offering shelter, housing, meals, recovery, and education officially opens.
Read Article12/17/2010
BC Turkey and Egg farmers donate $50,000 of products to help the health of those in Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside.
Read Article12/10/2010
Vancouver’s Union Gospel Mission will host its 70th annual Christmas dinner for over 3000 homeless and struggling people on Saturday, Dec 11, from 10:30am to 5:00pm, at 616 East Cordova Street. 300 volunteers will serve over 2,750 lbs of turkey, 800 lbs of vegetables, and 500 pumpkin pies.
Read Article12/10/2010
Planned in coordination with other service providers, Union Gospel Mission serves its Christmas meal early in the month so as to not conflict with other community meals. UGM will utilize the help of about 300 volunteers to serve over 3,000 people at several locations.
Read Article12/04/2010
Help-Portrait is a global movement of photographers using their time, gear and expertise to give back to those in need. Today’s Help Portrait Vancouver event will provide family and individual portraits for hundreds of low-income families and individuals on the Downtown Eastside.
Read Article11/22/2010
Ethical Bean Coffee Co. has donated 2,460 lbs of custom-roasted, fair trade certified and organic coffee to Union Gospel Mission, a donation which has a wholesale value of $22,000.
Read Article11/19/2010
Vancouver’s Union Gospel Mission (UGM) is bracing for what may be the coldest winter in decades by increasing shelter staff, opening extra areas of the Mission for shelter space, and distributing special emergency kits to those who refuse offers to come inside.
Read Article09/15/2010
Taking it to the Street: Union Gospel Mission offers an innovative program to help the homeless across Metro Vancouver
Read Article05/05/2010
Mother’s Day Miracle: A mother’s love endures homelessness as she celebrates Mother’s Day with her daughter.
Read Article03/15/2010
From Concrete Streets to Wooded Wonderland: Summer Camp Transforms the Life of Downtown Eastside Youth.
Read Article01/14/2010
Former addict turned poet John Oakley releases book, donates all proceeds to charities that have changed his life.
Read Article12/18/2009
Donations Down at Union Gospel Mission: Shoppers aren’t the only ones waiting until the last minute; donors are too.
Read Article12/07/2009
As is tradition, UGM will host its 69th annual scrumptious Christmas dinner for the hungry, hurting and homeless of the Downtown Eastside on Saturday, December 12.
Read Article12/02/2009
The recession may be over, but the need continues; The number of EI beneficiaries in Vancouver increased by almost 250% since last September, to over thirty one thousand people on EI in Vancouver alone.
Read Article11/19/2009
A Response to the Assistance to Shelter Act By Bill Mollard, Union Gospel Mission President.
Read Article11/15/2009
Local Chrysler Dealership Driven to Support Union Gospel Mission: Maple Ridge Chrysler Raises $18,000 in month-long campaign.
Read Article10/19/2009
150 of the Lower Mainland’s poorest kids are enjoying the day of their lives today as they make a whirlwind tour of Disneyland thanks to the Dreams Take Flight program. Ten of those kids have been invited from Union Gospel Mission’s Families and Children’s programs.
Read Article10/11/2009
Vancouver, BC – Can art heal? Try asking the artists featured in a show titled: “Uncovering Vision: A Discovery of Art Forms by Men and Women on the Downtown East Side.”
Read Article10/09/2009
Union Gospel Mission is projecting record numbers and long lineups as they serve 4,000 turkey dinners with all the trimmings on Thanksgiving Monday, October 12, 2009.
Read ArticleGratitude
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Thought Leadership
Learn more about poverty, homelessness, and addiction
Will your family support your charitable intent?
By Roger Lee, DLA Piper LLP • 05/31/2016
You decide to leave a significant amount of money to a charity or cause which is extremely important to you, to leave a lasting legacy and make a positive impact to your community. You set up your will to make the gift, thinking your children or spouse will respect your decision to make that gift [...]
Read PaperA healthy support system can change the trajectory of a child's life
Union Gospel Mission • 05/31/2016
When young people learn to make positive, life-giving choices at an early age, they are better equipped to lead a healthy adult life. For a child or youth who may be facing multiple adversities, such as poverty, risk of joining gangs, or drug and alcohol abuse, a week at summer camp can have an i [...]
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