The heat is rising and so is the need for water to keep Vernon's most vulnerable hydrated.
Environment Canada is forecasting a high of 28 degrees Celsius Thursday and rising up to 37 by Monday, July 8.
But those looking out for the city's homeless and less fortunate population are finding it harder to fundraise and get donations from the public.
"We still continue to feed everyone but it's hard with no donations," said Tracey Miller, from Packman Opens Hearts, which serves weekly Monday meals downtown. "I can't even get bottled water donated these days. And with the weather coming getting real hot, the people need to be hydrated."
She has literally been begging for water donations.
So too has the Upper Room Mission.
"Extreme heat is a serious health risk, especially for people struggling with homelessness," said the Mission, which is open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday and from 2 to 5 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday.
Meanwhile the Packman group is struggling just to keep the service going.
"Things are really rough right now and we're trying to fundraise but there's not much help out there at all," said Miller.
She has had to shut down their moving company due to a broken down truck and her husband's health issues.
"My husband has had two strokes and now is diagnosed with prostrate cancer on top of everything else."
A friend, Stephanie Jeffrey, has started a GoFundMe for the couple at
"They are struggling financially and emotionally but still continue to feed the people of Vernon," said Jeffrey of the couple who have volunteered every Monday evening for the last five years, serving supper at 6 p.m. behind People Place.
Meanwhile Turning Points Collaborative Society is also looking for some specific donations.
The Vernon outreach clinic is particularly in need of men's clothing and tents.
"Men's clothing, especially pants and shorts, are our biggest need right now. Tents, sleeping bags, luggage, plastic or reusable bags are always welcome!"
Donations can be dropped off at the Gateway Services Building at 2800 33rd Street (buzz main door), but calling ahead is helpful at 250-938-3518.
