Planning for joy amidst the pandemic
The Salvation Army’s familiar kettles and bell ringers are in more than 2,000 locations across Canada. supplied
The Christmas Kettle Campaign is The Salvation Army’s largest annual fundraiser
Christmas is traditionally a time to put aside the ups and downs of the year and gather family and friends to celebrate the holiday season. But even in good years, it’s a struggle for the most vulnerable people in society and those living in poverty to serve up a special meal and have a few gifts for children to open on Christmas morning.
“Christmas is one of the hardest times ever, and this has been one of the most difficult years for me,” says Kathy Jones*, a single mother of three who is also studying part-time. “When you don’t have the money to do things for your kids, it’s a struggle.”
“
This year, the people we serve are struggling like never before. We refuse to let the pandemic steal their Christmas joy. ”
Fortunately, Ms. Jones is one of the 233,000 people across Canada The Salvation Army has assisted with Christmas food hampers and toys for children.
“People have their pride; they don’t want others to think they can’t take care of their kids or afford to buy them things. I was one of those people, but I want others to know they should not be ashamed to ask for help – at The Salvation Army there is no judgment, and they make you feel so comfortable from the minute you walk in the door.
“No matter your situation, they say: If you need help, we’re going to help you – they see you struggling and in need of a helping hand, and they’re willing to give it to you,” she says.
The Christmas Kettle Campaign, The Salvation Army’s largest fundraising drive of the year, supports people like Ms. Jones and her children. The familiar kettles and kettle workers (or bell ringers) are seen in more than 2,000 locations across Canada, and she hopes people who may not have contributed to the kettles in the past will do so this year.
“This year, the people we serve are struggling like never before. We refuse to let the pandemic steal their Christmas joy. That’s why The Salvation Army is providing food, shelter and other essentials. Your donation will ensure everyone has a merry Christmas,” says Lt-Colonel John P. Murray, territorial secretary for communications.
While the campaign has a national goal of $23-million, every donation to a Christmas kettle remains in the community in which it was given to help local people in need.
“Have an open heart and support the generosity [of The Salvation Army]. They do amazing work – look at it as a positive thing you can do in 2020,” says Ms. Jones.
She was first introduced to The Salvation Army by a friend who told her about the organization’s Christmas programs.
“The help was so appreciated,” she says, as she recalls receiving a food hamper, a gift certificate to use at a grocery store and the opportunity to choose gifts, stocking fillers and an outfit for each child.
Her experience with the Christmas programs has also connected her to other available support.
“When I have discussed challenges, they have given me information about other community organizations and services and helped me connect with them,” she says.
To reach its $23-million fundraising goal this year, The Salvation Army is making it easy for anyone to donate. Even if you don’t have cash on hand individuals can donate online at fillthekettle.com.
*Not her real name.
Money raised through donations made at The Salvation Army’s Christmas kettles, together with other sources of funds, help provide service to over 1.9 million people in Canada every year. As one of the largest direct providers of social services in Canada, the organization’s annual report shows that in the last year:
By the Numbers
233,000 people were helped at Christmas with food hampers and toys
1.32 million people were assisted with food, clothing or practical assistance
3.3 million free meals were served at shelters and in feeding programs
169,000 meals were served in school breakfast programs
7,600 vulnerable youth were helped in 46 community youth programs
5,500 shelter, addictions, detox and mental health beds were provided each night
5,160 children went to The Salvation Army camps
Source: The Salvation Army Annual Report, 2019/20
For more stories from this feature, visit globeandmail.com