For many of their guests, it will be the only Christmas present they receive.

A backpack filled with simple items like socks, gloves, a few candies, toothpaste and other basic items can mean the world to someone living in poverty.

And to help those in need have a merry Christmas, Vernon's Upper Room Mission is turning to the public to help those living on the fringes of society know they are not forgotten through the URM Backpack Program.

Jodi McKenzie, outreach worker at the URM, said they have collected 87 backpacks so far, but have a goal of 250.

Last year, the mission received more than 780 backpacks which they handed out well into May.

“They make a huge difference because these backpacks will help our guests all throughout the year,” said McKenzie. “They have a backpack that will stay with them and that is very important. It's a wonderful way to get involved in the community.

“It's a really big deal actually. Our guests are thrilled when they receive a backpack.”

People can donate either a backpack, the items that go in the backpack or both.

Some of the items that can be included in a backpack are:

• Warm gloves, scarf, and/or toque
• Hand warmers
• New socks
• Small notepad & pens
• Flashlight
• Toiletry items (Travel size is best): shampoo, conditioner, toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, razors, Kleenex, Band-Aids, First-Aid kit, chapstick, etc.
• Hard candies

People are asked not to include items such as alcohol, money, gift cards or any perishable food items.

The donations can be dropped off at the URM, 3403 27th Ave., by Wednesday, Dec. 20 during regular business hours Monday to Friday.