Vernon residents can share the Christmas spirit by ensuring those in need find a gift under the tree.
The Upper Room Mission is asking for filled backpacks to be donated by Dec. 20.
“They will be given out during the mission’s special Christmas Eve dinner Dec. 22,” said Lisa Anderson, co-executive director.
Suggested items for the backpacks are socks, gloves, toques, small notepads and pens, flashlights, shampoo, conditioner, toothbrushes, toothpaste, deodorant, razors, Kleenex, Band-Aids and hard candies.
“Please label your backpack either male or female. Also, we kindly ask that you do not include items such as alcohol, gift cards, or any perishable food items,” said Anderson.
Another way to support the Upper Room Mission is by sponsoring a meal.
“Gather some of your co-workers together, or make it a special family event, and put together a meal that you can serve up to those in need,” said Anderson.
“Of course, monetary donations are always needed and greatly appreciated.”
You can make tax deductible donation online at www.upperroommission.ca, send a cheque to the Upper Room Mission or stop in at 3403 27th Ave., Vernon, B.C., V1T 1S2. You will receive a year-end tax receipt for your monetary donation.
“The services provided by the mission are one of a kind here in Vernon,” said Anderson.
“We serve three meals a day, five days a week to low-income families, seniors, the disabled, and of course, the homeless,” said Anderson.
“With the weather getting colder outside, more individuals are accessing our day shelter as well as meals. On average, the mission serves 325 to 400 meals a day and relies on the generosity of donors to provide the much needed services to the people of Vernon.”
For more information on donating, contact Anderson at 250-549-1231 or lisa.anderson@vernonurm.org.