The Salvation Army's GTA Kettle Campaign $1 Million Short of Goal as Christmas Campaign Enters Final Week
TORONTO, Dec. 16, 2016 /CNW/ - With Christmas only a few short days away, The Salvation Army is calling on those in the GTA to help "fill the kettles" that are located on street corners, store fronts and online. The 2016 GTA Christmas Kettle Campaign needs to raise approximately $1 Million in 1 week to meet its $3 million goal. In some 905 areas, donations to the kettles are down as much as 40%. The Salvation Army is asking the public to please donate as we move into the busiest shopping weekend of the season.
"The reality is that each year we see an increase in demand for our services, and that has been no different in 2016," says Andrew Burditt, spokesperson for The Salvation Army. "The funds donated to this campaign stay local and allow The Salvation Army to provide direct, compassionate, hands-on service to tens of thousands of families in the GTA each year."
Donors have a variety of ways to give to The Salvation Army's Christmas Kettle Campaign. In addition to giving at one of the 300 physical kettles spread throughout the area, donors can also give online at www.FilltheKettle.com.
On Saturday, December 17, Walmart Canada will host the 7th annual "Fill the Kettle Day" and match donations made by individuals to Salvation Army Christmas kettles located in its stores nationwide, up to a maximum of $100,000.
"For many, this time of the year is already difficult; and with costs rising for utilities and groceries, the season can be very challenging," says Burditt. "With Christmas a little more than a week away, we know that we can continue to count on the generous spirit of so many within the GTA. Each donation helps restore hope and dignity to families across the region."
About The Salvation Army Christmas Kettle Campaign
The first Salvation Army Christmas Kettle was used in 1891 on the docks of San Francisco by Salvation Army Captain Joseph McFee, and by 1906 they had made their way to Canada where they remain an effective fundraising tool for the organization. Bell ringing by volunteers at Christmas Kettles represents the subtle voice of those in need in our community.
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 people in your community who are in greatest need. News releases, articles and updated information can be found at salvationarmy.ca.
SOURCE The Salvation Army - Ontario Central Division
For further information on The Salvation Army, please contact: Andrew Burditt, Divisional Secretary for Public Relations and Development, 416-845-8231, twitter.com/tsatoronto, facebook.com/tsatoronto, instagram.com/tsatoronto
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