Alberta's weak economy appears to be having an impact on charity drives for Edmontonians in need.

Some say it's a perfect storm, with more people looking for help and fewer able to offer assistance.

The latest job cuts are making the problem worse.

"The most recent rounds of layoffs and corporate downsizing, right sizing, whatever they wish to call it, that's our donors that are losing their jobs," said Christmas Bureau executive director Wendy Batty.

"Our donors are being more challenged because now they're out of work, and they're not in a position to give the way they have in previous years. So we've been hit from both sides this year."

Batty said it's particularly tough for people who lost their jobs earlier in the year.

"They've been out of work since the spring, summer and coming up to Christmas they're really struggling and they just want to create a normal Christmas for their family," she said.

If you can, give more

Batty's message to prospective donors is a phrase being used by many Edmonton charities this holiday season.

"If you can give this year, give a little more," she said.

Edmonton Food Bank executive director Marjorie Bencz said she has faith her donors will also heed those words, as demand is way up this year.

Even the CBC Turkey Drive for the food bank is struggling, and this is the last day of the campaign.

Bencz is hoping a last-minute boost in donations is still on its way.

"Unfortunately Edmontonians tend to be last-minute donors so we've got our fingers crossed that they'll come through," Bencz said.

You can donate to the CBC Turkey Drive on the CBC Edmonton website or in person at the CBC or the food bank.