For those in need the winter can be a very dark, cold, and isolating time. Rewind to 1891 when the first Salvation Army Christmas Kettle was placed in San Francisco, raising funds to feed the poor. Since this time Kettles have become a tradition; iconic red Kettles adorning the streets every holiday season.

The Salvation Army Christmas Kettle Campaign is one of the largest and most recognizable annual charitable events. It plays a vital role in raising funds for programs, including hampers and gifts for children at Christmas, as well as other services that allow them to feed, clothe and shelter those in need, while helping others escape violence and addiction 365 days a year.

COVID-19 has affected many things; causing the need for basic necessities to be even greater. Since the beginning of the pandemic the need has grown at an alarming rate and continues to do so. Many Salvation Army locations across B.C. are seeing up to a 100% increase in demand for services.

In 2019, helped over 500 families feel relief with Christmas Hampers. However, this year over 700 Hampers are expected to be needed. In these hampers are gifts for children ages 0-18, as well as gift cards so clients feel safe to purchase groceries the way they鈥檇 prefer. Wonder if you qualify to receive one? Call 250-338-5133.

They Can鈥檛 Do It Alone

Kettles are on the streets and there鈥檚 a need for something very important 鈥� volunteers like you. This season Kettle Hosts are wearing masks, keeping safe distances, disinfecting, and completing a self-screening declaration every shift.

One of the most generous gifts you can give this year is your time; help The Salvation Army, register today at .

鈥淲e are seeing an 86% decrease in the number of volunteers signing up this year. Please help if you can; volunteers are the heart of our Kettle Campaign, especially when our services are being utilized more than ever,鈥� says Kaine Rice, Regional Kettle Manager.

How You Can Help

• Sponsor a Christmas Hamper for a family in need: Gift cards, cash donations accepted, call 250-338-6200.

• Volunteer for a Kettle shift: A fun, rewarding way to help your community and raise important funds; Register at today or call 250-338-6200.

• Donate to a Kettle: With precautions in place, safely use debit, credit, cash, change or cheque. Can鈥檛 find a Kettle? Simply visit and select how you would like to help.

Though things may look different this year, The Salvation Army is still here and still serving; when you hear those bells, please help to continue the tradition of Giving Hope Today 鈥� and everyday.