The Salvation Army has launched its annual Christmas kettle campaign across Lloydminster, aiming to meet a growing need for food support, toys and year round services.
Core officer Major Marina Jennings said the goal every December is simple. Help families celebrate Christmas with dignity while supporting programs that run long after the holidays.
“The Salvation Army’s mission is to meet human need and to be a transforming influence in our communities,” Jennings said.
Last year the Lloydminster kettles raised roughly 100,000 dollars, surpassing the campaign goal of 80,000. Jennings said the money stayed almost entirely in the community and supported local programs throughout the year.
“We know Christmas is a time of great need,” Jennings said.
“Our goal is to provide a good Christmas dinner, along with toys for children. The kettle campaign is a very large part of that.”
Five kettles are now in place at Canadian Tire, Sobeys, Walmart, Superstore and select days at the Co op. The stations run from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. with two hour volunteer shifts.
“Do we have enough people to man them? That is always a challenge,” Jennings said.
She credited kettle coordinator Jan for keeping the schedule running and said new volunteers are always welcome to call the local office.
Money raised during the campaign funds Christmas hampers, but it also supports programs year round. Jennings said the Lloydminster Salvation Army operates a full time food bank and partners with Lakeland College to provide a student meal program. Other programs include anger management for children and a weekly seniors coffee group.
She said the season feels busy, but rewarding.
“It is a joy to bring hope to people who often feel hopeless,” Jennings said.
“If we can do even the smallest thing to make a difference and provide the practical needs people have, then we feel we have met our mission.”
Jennings hopes donors walk away knowing their contribution matters, even if it feels small.
“There is joy in knowing you have made a difference in someone’s life,” Jennings said.
“Every cent counts and we could not do this without the donors in our community.”
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