VANCOUVER (NEWS1130) - They want to help people, but the
Union Gospel Mission says its shelves are running very low this summer and the shelter is now putting out a call for donations.
Keela Keeping with the UGM says non-perishable food items are much-needed right now. "Right now, our cupboards are looking a bit bare, because they haven't been stocked for awhile, so we're just looking to the community for a little help on that."
She suggests things like pasta and sauces, hearty soups, peanut butter, and oatmeal. She says they appreciate all goods, but need items that aren't too close to their expiry dates. They also need baby goods: diapers (especially in large sizes) baby formula and pablum, baby food, and baby wipes as they work with families in need of assistance.
"We don't get a lot of donations like that," explains Keeping. "We're kind of well-known for our recovery program and food program and that sort of thing, but we are growing our assistance to families and children in the community."
She adds making a donation may not be something people are thinking of at this time of year. "People are off for the summer, people may not be thinking about Christmas and the needs of people, but of course the needs are all year round."
Donations can be made directly
to the UGM.