Salvation Army Kettle. (Photo by Matt Weverink)Salvation Army Kettle. (Photo by Matt Weverink)
Chatham

Red Kettle campaign halfway to goal, but more volunteers needed

The Chatham-Kent Salvation Army is almost halfway to its fundraising goal but its signature campaign is still in need of more volunteers.

Red Kettles have been out for three weeks now and have raised $242,000 so far.

That's about 48 per cent of the $500,000 goal to help 9,000 people in need of assistance.

However, one of the organization’s biggest challenges is still trying to find volunteers to stand at the kettles.

"We're always looking for volunteers," said Maria Wall, an employee administrator. "Residents can volunteer at our kettles across the community."

The shift length can be chosen by the volunteer, but generally, most opt for a two hour shift.

This year, it’s even easier to stand at the kettles with the new 'tap' option, which allows people who do not have cash on them to donate by using their credit or debit card.

In Chatham, kettles can be found outside Walmart, Sobeys, No Frills, Giant Tiger, and the Real Canadian Superstore. In Wallaceburg, kettles are located outside Walmart and No Frills. Kettles are also outside the Food Basics and Sobeys in Blenheim.

According to Wall, the organization is also still looking for toy donations.

"We would love more baby stuff, from zero to two-years-old," said Wall. "We would appreciate more donations. Gifts can be dropped off at any Salvation Army location in Chatham, Wallaceburg, Ridgetown or Blenheim, whichever is closest."

Anyone interested in volunteering this holiday season can visit the CK Salvation Army Website by clicking here or call the office at 519-354-8353.

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