In a time of increased food insecurity, the Union Gospel Mission serves nearly 3,000 meals in the Downtown Eastside with Concert’s support
Meeting people where they’re at. Whether providing a meal, a safe place to stay or supporting individuals in addictions recovery, this is what the Union Gospel Mission (UGM) aims to do in communities across Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside, Metro Vancouver and the Fraser Valley.
UGM’s mission is to transform communities by overcoming poverty, homelessness and addiction one life at a time, and Concert has been a proud supporter since its first donation to UGM in 2008.
This year Concert was thrilled to again sponsor this incredible event. On July 9, 2022, over 40 Concert employees joined UGM staff and volunteers to fire up the BBQ, serve meals and supervise the kids zone.
“We were very pleased to again support UGM’s Annual Summer BBQ as lead sponsor,” says Concert’s Chair, President & CEO David Podmore, OBC. “I’m grateful for the many Concert employees who agreed to donate their time. Giving back to the communities where we are active is one of our founding principles and has become even more important over the years as the need increases.”
As the UGM’s biggest Downtown Eastside community event of the year, nearly 3,000 meals were distributed to attendees, including those who may be at-risk of or experiencing homelessness or are low-income. Families enjoyed face painting, bouncy castles and a mini-carnival of games.
“This was my third time volunteering with this event and I’m so glad it’s back,” says Bernadette Worobets, Sales, Marketing and Communications Administrator with Concert. “The UGM Summer BBQ is such a special day of community gathering and it feels great to get out with colleagues and contribute to such a wonderful cause.”
To learn more and see the highlights from the day, check out this video. To find out how you can support UGM, visit their website: ugm.ca.