Annual Kettle Campaign kicks off Monday
Nov. 18, 2019, is the start of the Salvation Army of Fort McMurray’s Christmas Kettle Campaign.
It’s a red-letter day for the red kettle campaign, which aims to raise $200,000.
Major Steve Hibbs spoke about why this year’s goal for the Salvation Army remains the same.
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“In consideration of the current economic challenges still faced by our community, we have decided to keep the goal for this year’s campaign the same as last year.”
However, the Christmas Kettle Campaign only managed to raise $185,000 in 2018.
Despite the challenges, Major Hibbs said the non-profit remains steadfast in reaching those in need.
“While demand for our services has increased as it does in challenging economic times, we are committed to providing assistance to all those with genuine need.”
Community and Family Services supported 5,205 adults and 1,074 children in our region last year.
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The help translated into assisting in paying over $168,500 in rent arrears and $12,930 for utilities.
Also, more than $7,400 covered children’s needs like diapers, baby wipes, and formula.
At least $8,990 went toward food, another $5,778 paid for food vouchers, and $6,100 helped people, in particular seniors, fill their prescriptions.
The 2019 Christmas Kettle Campaign kicks off with an 11 a.m. brunch in the Salvation Army’s Community Services Centre.
Fort McMurray-Cold Lake MP-elect David Yurdiga will officially launch the campaign with the first donation.
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Shifts are still available at many supporting stores throughout Fort McMurray.
A lack of volunteers working at kettles means those kettles can’t collect donations.
Volunteers may register for one or more shifts with the Wood Buffalo Volunteer Centre.