A 24-7 crisis line that helps people in distress in the north Okanagan got a big financial helping hand this summer. An anonymous donor gave the cash strapped Vernon Crisis Line a $50,000 donation.
The money will buy the crisis line time to deal with volunteer recruitment, an ongoing challenge that’s impacting the service’s finances.
The crisis line is well used. The service got over 5,500 calls last year. However, the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA), which operates the crisis line, has struggled to maintain its volunteer base for the service.
“In the last six years, the calls to the crisis line have doubled, yet our volunteer numbers are on the decline. This has posed a significant budget challenge with more staff working on the phones to ensure no call goes unanswered,” said Julia Payson, CMHA executive director, in a media release.
Those interested in volunteering can call 250-545-8074.
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