As temperatures continue to drop in the Lower Mainland, advocates say people experiencing homelessness are at an increased risk of suffering from life-threatening illnesses.
The Union Gospel Mission (UGM) has already been forced to turn away over 2,000 people in need of shelter this year — or roughly six people a day. This November, the DTES shelter at 601 E Hastings St has turned away 63 individuals seeking a warm bed, said UGM spokesperson Nicole Mucci.
"That is likely due to Emergency Weather Response shelters opening up for the winter – and while they are helpful, we are still at a deficit of space for folks during inclement weather," she noted.
The Vancouver weather forecast currently calls for more wet, cold weather and even the possibility of snowfall.
Due to the freezing temperatures, the UGM is putting out an urgent need for emergency survival gear. The shelter's Fraser Valley Mobile Mission Rescue Vehicle connects with people experiencing homelessness anywhere in the Lower Mainland, including more remote locations where they are seeing a massive increase in need.
"Being outside, during the onslaught of cold, consistent rain, is difficult on both the body and the spirit. Not only are folks at increased risks for life-threatening illnesses like pneumonia, but being battered by weather can be incredibly demoralizing," she said.
"When you are wet and cold, you aren’t going to sleep well, or be able to think strategically about seeking out long-term supports. Rather, people are focused on getting through right now and how to get and stay dry."
How you can help people experiencing homelessness in Metro Vancouver this winter
People are encouraged to donate to local shelters, or provide cold-weather survival gear to shelters like the UGM. By doing so, the shelter distributes gear to people who need it the most, and also "hopefully build meaningful relationships with them at the same time," explained Mucci.
The UGM is in dire need of the following items right now:
- Emergency blankets
- Sleeping bags & bivvy’s
- Rain ponchos
- Warm, waterproof gloves
- Waterproof shoes for men & women
- Waterproof jackets & pants for men & women (larger sizes are better for layering)
- Thermal underwear
- Socks, scarves, toques
Instead of giving gifts this year, Vancouverites are being urged to create #ShareChristmas campaigns, and ask folks to donate there. All of the fundraisers receive bonus donations on their campaigns for reaching milestones, too.
You can also "choose your impact" with fundraising campaigns. For instance, a fundraising goal of $545 will provide 100 holiday meals this season at five locations across the Lower Mainland. It will be the first in-person Christmas meals event since the pandemic started.
Other impact fundraising goals include gifts of hope, winter care kits, and shelter.
You can also donate directly to the UGM online and learn more about how their help provides nights in shelter for our community members.
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