The Salvation Army in Yellowknife kicked off its annual Christmas kettle campaign at city hall on Monday.
The charitable organization hopes to raise $45,000 locally this year, according to Lt. Dusty Sauder, executive director of the local Salvation Army branch.
The campaign provides key funds for Christmas hampers, the soup kitchen and other programs the Salvation Army runs throughout the year.
“Demand for our services is up across the board,” said Sauder.
“The increased demand for meals at our soup kitchen and for food hampers, combined with the increased cost of food, has resulted in a significant budget gap for us this year.”
Last year, the Salvation Army aimed to raise $40,000 in Yellowknife and came in just under that target with $39,000 in donations.
Like previous years, kettles will be set up at Walmart, Canadian Tire and both liquor stores every Thursday night, Friday night and Saturday until Dec. 23. People can also donate online.
If you’d like to volunteer to stand by a kettle this holiday season, contact James Moulton at 920-4673.
Sauder added: “We are always grateful to the members of our community who volunteer to ring the bells at a Christmas kettle.”
Christmas hamper program
Once Christmas food and toy hampers are packaged, they’re delivered to families in Yellowknife and other communities throughout the territory.
Over 500 NWT households received packages as part of last year’s campaign.
Families and individuals in need of support this holiday season are encouraged to apply for hampers until Dec. 16.
Potential recipients can apply at the Salvation Army’s resource centre on 45 Street between 9:00 a.m. and noon on weekdays, or call Lt. Laurie Sauder at 920-4673 ext. 220.
