STAY CONNECTED: Have the stories that matter most delivered every night to your email inbox. Subscribe to our daily local news wrap.
By Justine Kelsie

Salvation Army sets large goal for 2017 campaign

Nov 17, 2017 | 4:07 AM

The Salvation Army in the Grande Prairie region is hoping to rake in half-a-million dollars with their 2017 Kettle Campaign. 

In 2016, a goal was set for $430,000, but the organization was able to bring in closer to $475,000.

“We are actually seeing the demand increase because we are seeing new families, individuals, and people coming in trying to find work here. There are circumstances where people get laid off and other circumstances where people have illnesses,” said Lieutenant Peter Kim. “Those contributing factors increase the amount of people that come and use our services.”

Last year, there were around 32,000 meals served at the soup kitchen and approximately 3,000 hampers given to people in need. Those numbers are up from 2015 with close to 29,000 meals served and 2,900 hampers given out. Since 2014, there has been an increase 30.7 percent increase in meals served and 48.9 percent increase in hampers given.

Kim is hoping the community can step up to donate whether it is through physical donations at the Kettle Bells or through the mail-outs. 

“We are looking at 50-50. We are hoping to see $250,000 through kettles and $250,000 through mailers. We are really relying on the generosity of people giving cheques and those type of things. It is great for tax-deductible reasons as well.” 

Besides food, there is a need for toys for children between the age of 6 and 12. They collect toys and gift cards during the campaign for their Toy Store. 

The organization is also in search of volunteers.

“We are thankful for all of those that have volunteered in the past and are currently volunteering, but we are in search of the next generation of volunteers and people to come help and give back to the community. A two-hour shift is actually enjoyable and fun. We are encouraging individuals, young people, and families to come. To be able to do this together is a great tradition,” said Kim.

Kettles will be set up around Grande Prairie on Friday, November 17. The campaign lasts for five weeks. 

by Justine Kelsie