The Salvation Army Christmas Kettles Need Filling

BARRIE, Dec. 10, 2013 /CNW/ - The Salvation Army 2013 Christmas Kettle Campaign in Central Ontario has only 14 days left to meet its fundraising goals.  Salvation Army Bell-Ringers are out in full-force in hopes to collect much-needed donations that will support its work for the coming year.

The first Salvation Army Christmas Kettle was used in 1891 on the docks of San Francisco by Salvation Army Captain, Joseph McFee. By 1906 they had made their way to Canada and are still an effective fundraising tool for the organization. "The Christmas Kettle is a symbol of help and hope in each one of our communities" says Jeffrey Robertson, Spokesperson for The Salvation Army, "A donation to The Salvation Army is a positive step in helping to make your community stronger.  Your gift will provide practical help that can change a life, and can provide a real sense of newfound dignity."

The Christmas Campaign helps The Salvation Army provide direct, compassionate, hands-on service to more than 1.8 million people in Canada each year, restoring hope and dignity to the most vulnerable in society. The Salvation Army's annual Christmas Campaign has grown into one of Canada's most significant and recognizable annual charitable events.  "Most campaigns in the region are behind where they were a year ago.  With more people looking for help, the need to fill the Kettles grows", says Robertson.

"For those who prefer not to carry cash with them, they can still give.  They can give to an on-line kettle at fillthekettle.com and receive an electronic tax receipt", says Robertson.

About The Salvation Army:
The Salvation Army is an international Christian organization that began its work in Canada in 1882 and has grown to become the largest non-governmental direct provider of social services in the country. The Salvation Army gives hope and support to vulnerable people today and every day in 400 communities across Canada and more than 125 countries around the world. The Salvation Army offers practical assistance for children and families, often tending to the basic necessities of life, providing shelter for homeless people and rehabilitation for people who have lost control of their lives to an addiction.

When you give to The Salvation Army, you are investing in the future of marginalized and overlooked people in your community.  News releases, articles and updated information can be found at salvationarmy.ca.

SOURCE: The Salvation Army - Ontario Central Division

Jeffrey P Robertson
Area Director, Public Relations and Development
The Salvation Army, Ontario Central East Division
416-460-4441   SalvationArmy.ca