In an effort to provide the best care possible, and to minimize barriers to safe shelter, Kelowna's Gospel Mission is now offering shelter for pets of clients, and an area for safe storage of carts and oversized belongings.
Kelowna's Gospel Mission, in partnership with the SPCA has created an area - K9 Korner - that keeps pets safe and warm while their owners are seeking services at the Mission.
"Just as pets provide comfort and companionship to families and those who are housed, this may be more so for people on the street facing challenges and troubled times," says Executive Director Randy Benson.
"Too often people judge the homeless by saying because they are homeless they have no right to have a pet. It's more complex than that. These are issues that deal with emotions and relationships. "No one likes to be alone."
To better care for the few material possessions that clients have, the Gospel Mission has also has created an area for secure storage of carts, bikes and oversized belongings.
We are also delighted to share a happy spin-off of our new women's shelter. Because of this area, couples who find themselves in need of our services are able to stay the night under one roof.
"Couples struggling through hard times - in any situation - need each other for support," says Case Worker Manager Veronica Cowan. "It just makes sense. They are together to make decisions."
Kelowna's Gospel Mission women's shelter area has been open since August.