The Salvation Army B.C. Division says families in need could miss out on support this holiday season, if Christmas Kettle donations don’t pick up soon.
With less than a week to go before Christmas, Kettle donations in Vancouver are down almost 76 per cent compared to last year.
Mike Leland, from The Salvation Army B.C. Division, said the charitable organization relied heavily on their Kettle donations not only to help people during Christmas, but all year long. He said almost 70 per cent of the funds raised to support the organization were usually raised during November and December.
“This is our busiest fund-raising time of the year and to be down this much at this point in our campaign is very concerning,” Leland said.
“We rely on these funds heavily and if we do not turn things around quickly, a lot of individuals and families are going to be missed this year.”
The Kettle Campaign enables The Army units to work with struggling individuals and families and to provide people in need with basic necessities.
Donations also support the charity’s life-changing programs, such as substance abuse recovery, housing supports, job and life-skills training, and education classes that help people find a way out of poverty, permanently.
With just a few days remaining before Christmas, the charity is hoping for a strong outpouring of support from the public.
“The Christmas kettle is a symbol of help and hope for those in need during the holidays and a direct way for people to make a meaningful impact in their community,” Leland said.
The Salvation Army has a national fundraising goal of $21.6 million and a $4 million provincial goal.
Donations to the Christmas campaign can also be made online at The Salvation Army, by calling 1- 800-SAL-ARMY (725-2769), or via mail to The Salvation Army, 2 Overlea Blvd, Toronto, ON M4H 1P4.
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