The holiday is a reminder of the family bond that connects those working, volunteering or staying at Kelowna's Gospel Mission.

On Friday, the organization had a Hawaiian-themed retirement send-off for the well-respected leader.

"We are monitoring very carefully, but, obviously, it is a concern for us because probably homeless shelters are the worst place where the COVID-19 could break out," said Kelowna Gospel Mission executive director Randy Benson.

People experiencing homelessness have seen major changes to their services due to the coronavirus pandemic, in Kelowna.

In Kelowna, shelters are at capacity and operators are working with the Central Okanagan Journey Home Society to find additional emergency spaces.

"At the end of the day, just seeing my people enjoy themselves and having a meal together... I love seeing that."

Randy Benson has announced his retirement after serving the community for 19 years.

After months of homeless people camping on Leon Avenue, the street is looking back to normal.

The ‘Homelessness is No Picnic’ picnic was at City Park in Kelowna on Saturday.

This Thanksgiving the need is even greater in Kelowna with homeless numbers in the city reaching staggering highs.