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Calgary’s holiday donation campaign in jeopardy
The Calgary branch of the Salvation Army is currently facing a significant challenge in its annual holiday donation campaign. As of Saturday, the organization has raised approximately $250,000, which is only about 29% of its ambitious $850,000 goal for this year’s Christmas Kettle Campaign.
This shortfall is particularly concerning as the campaign is crucial for funding various services that support vulnerable populations in the community.
Impact of postal strike on donations
According to Ian McKenzie, a representative from The Salvation Army, the ongoing postal strike has had a detrimental effect on their fundraising efforts.
“Because of the postal strike primarily, our donations are down,” he stated, highlighting that the organization has only reached about 50% of its nationwide goal. The postal service disruption has significantly impacted the volume of donations received through the mail, which traditionally constitutes a substantial portion of their funding.
McKenzie urges the community to contribute either by donating at the kettles or through online platforms, emphasizing the importance of direct community support during this critical time.
Rising demand for services
The need for the services provided by The Salvation Army has never been more pressing.
McKenzie reported a staggering 60% increase in first-time clients seeking assistance at their food bank, a rise from 43% in 2023. This surge in demand underscores the urgent need for adequate funding to ensure that essential programs and services can continue to operate effectively.
The funds raised through the Kettle Campaign are vital for providing direct, compassionate support to over 1.9 million individuals across Canada each year, helping to restore hope and dignity to those who might otherwise remain unseen in society.
As the Kettle Campaign approaches its conclusion on December 24th, the Calgary branch is calling on the community to step up and support their efforts.
Without sufficient funds, the organization may struggle to deliver the necessary programs and services that are increasingly in demand. The time to act is now, as every contribution can make a significant difference in the lives of those who rely on The Salvation Army’s support during the holiday season and beyond.
