Church Picks Up Backpack Program

Written by Peter McIntyre 107.5 KISSFM Tuesday, 09 December 2014 16:00
Vernon's Upper Room Mission is getting some help with one of its popular programs. The non profit agency normally collects backpacks filled with items from the community, to distribute to the less fortunate on Christmas Eve. However, the recent flood at the Mission has closed the building for several weeks. Spokesperson Lisa Anderson says the All Saints Anglican Church (at 3205 27th Ave. across the street from Beairsto School) has graciously taken it upon themselves to collect, store, and hand out the backpacks on December 20th. "I am getting so many calls and emails asking about the backpacks, as people really look forward to making them for our guests this time of year," says Anderson. People can fill backpacks with things like toothbrushes and toothpaste, deodorant, brushes, soap, socks, a toque, gloves, pen/paper, or a scarf. "Please label your backpack male or female. Also, feel free to put in a Christmas card if you so desire," adds Anderson. The church will be handing them out on Saturday, Dec 20, during their regular meal time that they put on. Their office hours/drop off times are Tuesday-Thursday, 9am-2pm, and Friday 9am-12pm. The last day for drop off is Friday, Dec. 19.
---------
Backpacks filled with hope
by Richard Rolke - Vernon Morning Star posted Dec 12, 2014 at 1:00 AM
A flood isn’t dampening the Christmas spirit. A broken water main has closed Vernon’s Upper Room Mission but the collection of backpacks for clients will continue through All Saints Anglican Church. “The backpacks are not only a much appreciated Christmas gift, but a tangible reminder that someone cares,” said Michael Robinson, with All Saints. The backpacks will be distributed to those in need Dec. 20 during the weekly Saturday soup kitchen at the church. Residents wanting to donate a backpack are urged to fill them with items such as toothbrushes, toothpaste, deodorant, a brush, soap, a face cloth, socks, a toque, gloves, a scarf, Kleenex, a pen and paper and even candy. Label your backpack male or female and you can also include a Christmas card if you wish. “They’re items that are important,” said Lisa Anderson, Upper Room Mission fundraising director. “We take the items for granted but they’re a big deal for them (clients).” The backpacks always prove popular with the recipients. “This may be the only Christmas gift they receive,” said Anderson. At least 150 backpacks will be needed to meet demand, and Anderson is confident the community will rally.“People enjoy putting them together,” she said.

Anyone wanting to donate a backpack can drop it off at All Saints Anglican Church (3205 27th Ave.) Tuesday to Thursday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. and Friday from 9 a.m. to noon. The last day for drop-off is Dec. 19. Donations towards the cost of the Dec. 20 meal are also being accepted and they can be dropped off at the church.