Londoners are once again being asked to be generous when they see a Salvation Army Christmas Kettle this season.
The Salvation Army launched its annual kettle campaign on Thursday. This year's goal is over a half-million dollars, according to Salvation Army divisional director of marketing and communications Shannon Wise.
"Our goal is $550,000 once again this year and those contributions allow us to continue operating our Christmas hamper program," Wise said. "All of that money stays right here in London."
According to the Salvation Army, money raised through the kettle campaign helps thousands of Londoners each year. It is the agency's largest public fundraising drive of the year and helps pay for things like the Christmas Hamper Program, which provides toys for children and everything needed for a Christmas meal.
But it also helps the Salvation Army address issues in the community beyond the struggle to provide holiday gifts for children. Wise says monetary donations also help with the Salvation Army's efforts to help people struggling with addiction.
"Our new Recovery Community Centre at the Centre of Hope is really going to help so many Londoners who struggle with substance abuse and who want to turn their lives around. So, these monetary donations go a long way," she said.
Funds are also used for housing supports, jobs and skills training, and budgeting classes.
In addition to monetary support, the Salvation Army is also seeking support from volunteers who are willing to staff the kettles at locations around the city. According to Wise, those volunteers are critical to the success of the campaign.
"We rely so much on our kettle workers who donate their time," she said. "Yes, monetary donations are important, but donating time is just as important."
Anyone interested in volunteering can sign up online at www.londonchristmaskettles.ca or call (519) 873-2984.