It’s that time of year again, where you will have the opportunity to help those in need this holiday season.
The Salvation Army has launched its 135th annual Christmas Kettle Campaign.
Wendy Woodland, public relations officer with the Salvation Army, tells us why this initiative is so important.
“There are so many people in need in our communities. So many vulnerable people who are struggling with food insecurity, with shelter issues, with homelessness. Trying to make impossible choices at Christmas time,” says Woodland.
“Money is short. Do I give my child the Christmas that they need? Or do I pay my rent? Do I buy my medicine that is needed? Or do I make sure there’s a Christmas meal on the table.”
She says every single dollar counts with the money going toward not only food hampers but programs for things like job training, life skills and long-term support, to help people rebuild their lives with dignity.
The need is always great, but Woodland says there is another reason that makes this year in particular, so concerning.
“Our own proper poverty research report says 63 per cent of Canadians say their household has felt financial impact from the tariffs and the current trade disputes,” says Woodland. “This calendar year, people are worried they’re seeing a lot of increases, and we are already seeing some of that with our registrations.”
Not only are they seeing new faces visit their locations, but also more seniors, who she says are “feeling the pinch”.
With 2,000 kettle locations across the country, this year’s national goal is to bring in $22 million.
“Maybe people don’t feel they can afford to give,” says Woodland. “But even if somebody was to decide, I’m going to buy one less coffee at a shop this week. I’m going to take that money and drop it in the kettle. Well, they’ll feel good about that because it feels good to give.”
You can also donate at SalvationArmy.ca, by calling 1-800-SAL-ARMY (725-2769) or by mail to The Salvation Army, 2 Overlea Blvd., Toronto ON M4H 1P4.
