Record Numbers Reported for Kelowna's Gospel Mission

Kelowna’s Gospel Mission has released information on their fundraising campaign for the last year and the community continues to show support for them.

In the Mission’s annual report Executive Director Randy Benson outlines how successful the group was from 2013 to 2014 and looks ahead to the coming year. In the past year the Mission served more than 150,000 meals to community members and had almost 26,000 people take advantage of the overnight beds.

Photo Credit: Kelowna's Gospel Mission

“With all that we were able to accomplish, we are excited about the future,” said Benson. “Under the board’s direction, we set out to create a comprehensive plan for the next five years. We are already seeking great changes in the success of the Mission.”

Photo Credit: Kelowna's Gospel Mission

The Mission has a five pillar strategic plan that includes programs, human capital, financial, prayer and board governance.

“As we continue into the 2015 fiscal year, we have many strategic initiatives that we know will build on the successes of the previous year,” adds Benson. “We will expand our dental clinic to help hundreds more working poor and seniors with free dental care. We will re-start our men’s addiction recovery program. We will start classes with the help of volunteers and churches to help the homeless become more self-sufficient and prepared to be housed and employed. It is our prayerful hope that you will join us in greater numbers in 2015!”

Photo Credit: Kelowna's Gospel Mission

The Mission plans to restart its Christian-based recovery program in 2015. That will begin with classes for men and women during the day to get them housed, working, and becoming productive members of society. By also working with caseworkers the Mission will help meet the needs of clients and the increased numbers seen over the past year.

Broadening the use of volunteers is also on the agenda for the Mission in 2015. Staff members will receive additional training and redefined job descriptions to help direct work with clients and professional growth plans. Volunteers will be used to teach classes, lead others and provide supplement staff roles.

Phoot Credit: Kelowna's Gospel Mission

A review of budget lines through the Mission’s board of directors will take place in 2015. The Mission will look to increase funding sources and engage with outside groups to help with fundraising. During 2013- 2014 the Mission had $4,169,121 in revenue and had $4,148,000 in expenses.

The Kelowna Gospel Mission provides those in need with a hot meal, place to stay, dental services and help with addictions.