The Salvation Army officially launches its 2018 Christmas Kettle Campaign on Monday.
The annual fundraiser enables local Salvation Army units in 400 communities across Canada to help individuals and families with food, clothing and shelter. It's estimated that one in seven Canadians struggle to make ends meet.
Every donation to a Christmas kettle remains in the community in which it was given, in order to help local people in need.
Last year, The Salvation Army helped over 1.7 million people, including providing 3.2 million free meals, 7,300 emergency beds each night, and assisting 269,000 individuals with Christmas food hampers and toys.
"For over 135 years, The Salvation Army has provided hope and dignity to people in need through the generosity of our donors and volunteers," said Lieutenant-Colonel John Murray, secretary for communications. "Hosted at more than 2,000 locations across Canada, the annual Christmas Kettle Campaign is our largest fundraising drive of the year and would not be possible without the thousands of kettle workers who volunteer their time."
In addition to accepting donations of cash or cheques, most kettle locations this year will also enable donors to give with their debit or credit cards through secure Moneris terminals that feature tap-and-go technology.
Donations to the 2018 Christmas Campaign can also be made at SalvationArmy.ca, or by calling 1-800-SAL-ARMY (725-2769).