Photo: Salvation Army Grande Prairie and Area / Facebook

By Shane Clausing

Salvation Army Grande Prairie

Grande Prairie Salvation Army hoping for final drive of donations before Christmas

Dec 21, 2020 | 2:40 PM

The Grande Prairie Salvation Army is hoping for one final drive of donations from the public before Christmas this Friday.

The Salvation Army says it has so far raised $434,000, which is short of its $500,000 goal.

The Kettle Campaign this year was met with many challenges because of COVID-19.

This year’s campaign was short of volunteers because of the COVID-19 threat and on December 11, the organization made the decision to remove volunteers from its kettle stations because of new restrictions implemented by the Alberta government.

While the campaign has been met with challenges, Captain Peter Kim says that they’re still ready to help anyone and everyone this holiday season.

“We know that our shelves are full right now to be able to meet the needs. This year we decided to make sure that we not only provide food but gift cards as well to help ensure less contact with the food bank. This last week we’re able to help out those who walk in as well.”

According to Kim, the money raised will help the Salvation Army with operating costs throughout 2021.

“It helps fund all of the wonderful programming we have in the Salvation Army. It’s not just the Food Bank, it’s our Community Kitchen, Emergency Disaster Services and our Pathway of Hope.”

Kim tells EverythingGP that so far 1,172 hampers have been given out as of December 18 and he expects that number to rise.

Anyone who is looking for a hamper can visit the Salvation Army and get one or register at their website.

Those interested in donating to the Salvation Army Food Bank can do so by dropping donations off at the facility or by donating money online.

Kim says he’s thankful for everyone’s generosity this year, especially in what has been a very trying time.

“Whether they put a few coins in the kettle, wrote a cheque and mailed it in or went online and donated, I just wanted to thank them all. It’s such a generous and wonderful community.”