With the Upper Room Mission cutting back drop-in hours due to a reduction in gaming grant funding, Bev Henke wants everyone to know The Ark is open for business.

The Ark is located in the backroom of Vernon Family Church on 25th Avenue and Henke welcomes everyone to stop by for a cup of coffee, a board game or two and some friendly conversation.

“The Ark is a safe, comfortable, fun place for people to come,” said Henke, adding the doors are open from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday.

Tuesday's are for ladies only.

“Everyone is welcome the rest of the time. There is free coffee and goodies are always available.”

The Mission is now open only for mealtime and Henke said The Ark is a good place to hang out rather than wander city streets, especially during inclement weather.

Funding for The Ark comes from a few small grants, but mostly it operates through donations and recently started a bottle recycling program to help pay for the bills.

The Ark also sells meals for $6 to help run the facility.

“Those are good for two people,” said Henke of the meals.

The Ark has hot soup at the ready for anyone who missed a meal at the Mission.

People can also pick a loaf of bread and some free clothing.

Every Friday starting at 6 p.m., The Ark hosts a dinner, movie and games night – all free of charge.

For Henke, The Ark is a labour of love (she has not received a paycheque in months) and she plans to keep the centre operating for as long as possible.

Photo: Darren Handschuh