Deal for new home goes south
A group helping those without shelter could be homeless itself in less than a month unless it finds accommodation for its services.
Jonquil Hallgate, executive director of Surrey Urban Mission Society (SUMS), was working to secure a new place at 13777 103 Avenue and on Christmas Eve when it was told by the City of Surrey it likely doesn't have the right zoning.
That wrinkle was ironed out on Dec. 28, however, the following day, the property was sold.
SUMS offers meals to the hungry, a dental program, legal advice, a wellness clinic and an extreme weather shelter.
SUMS has to vacate its current location at 13388 104 Ave. by Jan. 25.
Hallgate knew earlier this year that she'd have to find a new place.
Discussions between the Lutheran Church, the Sinod and Hallgate resulted in a decision to sell a large chunk of the current property and give SUMS $1 million to relocate.
"It was very generous," Hallgate said Monday.
The property sold, but SUMS didn't receive the money until October. Several promising places were available before that, but it was difficult to secure a place without funding.
Now, Hallgate just says she needs a willing seller east of King George Boulevard, to stick their hand up and say 'over here'. "
If that doesn't happen, or if they can't find a spot, there will be several people going hungry as of Jan. 26.
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