The Salvation Army’s Christmas Kettle Campaign in Abbotsford/Mission has raised more than $152,000 during the three-week campaign, just shy of their $165,000 goal.
The funds come at a critical time as the organization is experiencing an increase in demand for programs and services during these difficult times. Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, The Salvation Army has seen an increase in the number of individuals and families requesting services in the community.
“This year has been tough for a lot of people,” says spokesperson Rob Studiman, Community Ministries Director. “Because of almost two years of living in a pandemic, a lot of people are still struggling. We are seeing a greater need and we rely on the public to help us meet the demand.”
“The people in Abbotsford and Mission have been incredibly generous this holiday season,” comments Majors Ruth & Ian Gillingham. “Every year we ask them to help their community and every year they step up to meet the demand and we can’t thank them enough.”
Every dollar raised through the Red Kettle campaign will stay in Abbotsford and Mission and will be used to fund vital programs and services. The Salvation Army works to provide the necessities: food, clothing, and shelter, while offering life-changing programs, such as Pathway of Hope, Supportive Independent Living, 12 Step as well as volunteer and part-time work opportunities that help people find a way out of poverty, permanently.
“Despite having to shorten this year’s Christmas Red Kettle Campaign due to the devastating flood, we came very close to reaching our fundraising goal. The last few weeks of 2021 brought unimaginable loss to many in our community. The community’s response to support one another was amazing! We are incredibly grateful to all those who contributed time and finances to support our fundraising effort. Thank you to all the merchants, kettle hosts and donors for making this possible. Your kindness and generosity enable us to continue to serve those in need locally”, shares Carolyn Pollard, Kettle Coordinator.
With money still being counted, the organization is hoping to meet its provincial target of $5 million. Nationally the organization is hoping to achieve its goal of $21 million.
Along with individual donors The Salvation Army is thankful for the ongoing generosity of numerous corporate partners, including Walmart, Costco, BC Liquor Stores, Canadian Tire, Save-on-Foods, Sobeys, Great Canadian Superstore, and many more, who give and generously allow Christmas Kettles to be placed at their stores.
