The Simcoe Salvation Army’s iconic red kettles are now out in various locations across Norfolk to collect donations through the holiday season.
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The Salvation Army band was on hand for the official launch of the 2024 Christmas Kettle Campaign on Friday at the Real Canadian Superstore in Simcoe.
This year’s overall campaign goal is $312,000, said Doug Montgomery, kettle coordinator, with about half coming from donations at the kettles and half from the Salvation Army’s corporate letter-writing campaign to local individuals and businesses.
“There is a growing need every year,” said Montgomery of the assistance the Salvation Army provides. “It’s just tougher for people to make ends meet. We’re seeing a lot of new people who’ve never used our services before.”
Money raised through the Christmas campaign goes toward the Salvation Army’s food bank and emergency food hampers, and to the Christmas Hamper program, which helps brighten the holidays for those in need.
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“All the money stays in Norfolk County,” Montgomery said. “If it’s donated in Norfolk, it’s spent in Norfolk.”
Kettles are set up until Dec. 24 at 2 pm at 12 locations. The locations at the LCBO start after Dec. 1.
Locations include:
- Simcoe — Giant Tiger, Sobeys, Walmart, Canadian Tire, Real Canadian Superstore and the LCBO.
- Waterford — Foodland and the LCBO
- Port Dover—No Frills and the LCBO. The Port Dover Lions have a kettle at the Silver Lake Market on Saturday from 8 am to 1 pm
- Delhi – Your Independent Grocer
Volunteers are urgently needed to man the kettles, said Montgomery. There are about 1,200 two-hour shifts, with about 400 yet to be filled. To register, call 519-909-9421 or 519-426-3640.
“No special training is required,” said Montgomery. “We just ask people to make eye contact and say, ‘Hello, or Merry Christmas.’”
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