On behalf of my Council colleagues I would like to extend our best wishes for the success of the Houses of Mercy project.
This is an exciting venture, launched by the Kelowna Christian Center and other local churches, which provide an outstanding community service. Based on neighbours helping neighbours, Houses of Mercy will provide those in need with a place to turn when they need it most. Families who belong to the Houses of Mercy will be trained to provide a variety of services from something as simple as a sympathetic ear to providing access to a phone or connecting people with other community resources.
The residents of Kelowna have a long history of community service. I am confident that people will embrace this project by opening both their homes and hearts to help their neighbours. I am particularly excited about this project as I feel it will help Kelowna maintain a sense of community, which can sometimes be lost as small communities evolve into large urban centres.
The program's success depends largely on volunteers. I would like to thank each and every person who has committed to participating in this program. Your efforts will no doubt make a huge difference in others lives.
We appreciate the important community service the Houses of Mercy will provide to the residents of Kelowna. All the best with what I am sure will be a long and successful program.
Yours truly,
Walter Gray
MAYOR