It’s About the Giving
The Salvation Army Makes Christmas Magic
The sound of jingling bells and the sight of a Salvation Army Christmas kettle is a wonderful part of the holiday season. The Salvation Army’s Kettle Campaign funds the important work the organization does all year long, and this year, their work is even more needed in our community. “We’re anticipating a greater need for help this Christmas,” says Kristen Gray, Captain at Salvation Army Haven of Hope in Regina. “The COVID-19 pandemic has definitely made things difficult for many families in our community.”
This year, the Christmas Kettle campaign will operate essentially as always in Regina. Volunteers will be placed with kettles in retail locations around Regina with proper PPE. Physical distancing is possible with the kettles, and the Salvation Army offers their “Tip Tap” technology to allow for donations with a debit or credit card, reducing contact even further. “Donations are easy with our cashless, touchless option,” says Kristen. “You just select one of three denominations, tap, and go.” All kettles will have the cashless tap option and you can also donate online from wherever you are at HavenofHope.ca.
No matter how you choose to donate, the money stays in Regina to help local families in the community. “Every dollar donated is used to run our programs year-round,” says Kristen. “The funds supply Christmas hampers and toys for families during the holidays, and also assist us with our income tax clinics, weekly lunches, summer camps and seniors’ programs.”
Also, during the holidays, donations of new, unwrapped toys are accepted for the Santas Anonymous program, organized in conjunction with 980 CJME. “Details can be found on our website as the holidays approach,” says Kristen.
The Adopt a Family Christmas program is also available this year, like in years past, and increased demand is anticipated. The long-time partnership between Z99 and the Salvation Army has been very successful for both adopted families and the donors. “Donors provide Christmas gifts and food for Christmas breakfast and dinner,” says Kristen. “It’s a wonderful way to celebrate the season and share with others.” If you’re someone in need this Christmas, know someone who is, or want to adopt a family, applications for the Santas Anonymous program can be found online at HavenofHope.ca.
The Christmas Kettle Campaign is in need of volunteers, and the commitment at a kettle is as little as one hour. “Whatever time you can spare, we’ll gratefully accept,” says Captain Gray.
To learn more, call 306.757.4600.
No matter how you want to help—donating to a kettle, volunteering your time, dropping off toys or adopting a family—know that the Salvation Army appreciates whatever you can do. “Our programs depend on our community’s care and generosity, and the people who benefit are so grateful,” says Kristen. “The Christmas season is a time for giving. Whatever our community can do for us, we are thankful.”
Salvation Army Haven of Hope Ministries
2240 13th Avenue | Regina | 306.757.4600 | Havenofhope.ca