Donors, volunteers, sponsors and partners across Canada helped The Salvation Army's 2012 Christmas Kettle Campaign collect $20.6 million, which is just short of the Army's $21 million goal.
With nearly 2,000 kettles nationwide, economic conditions played a factor in the public's overall giving. Despite not reaching the fundraising goal, The Salvation Army will put all donations towards funding programs to reduce poverty and aid those in need.
"We've felt the effects of increased need over the last few years now," said Graham Moore, Public Relations and Development Secretary for The Salvation Army in Canada and Bermuda. "We're incredibly grateful for the continued generosity Canadians showed us this Christmas season in raising over $20.6 million. Monies raised will help provide Canada's most vulnerable with not only food, shelter and clothing, but also dignity and hope."
Last year marked the 130th anniversary of The Salvation Army's work in Canada, as well as the country's 106th Christmas Kettle Campaign. In 2011, more than $21 million was raised in kettles nationwide. In addition to physical kettles located on street corners and shopping centres across the country, donors also had the option to give online through FilltheKettle.com.
"Without reaching this year's fundraising goal, The Salvation Army will work harder than ever to make every dollar stretch further and will continue to meet demand at our programs," said Moore. "We are humbled year after year by the generosity of Canadians across the nation. Without such kindness, The Salvation Army would not be able to continue our mission of Giving Hope Today."
The Salvation Army's Christmas Kettle Campaign helps provide direct, compassionate, hands-on service to more than 1.8 million people in Canada each year. The annual campaign has grown into one of Canada's most significant and recognizable charitable events. The Salvation Army relies on the support of numerous corporate partners, including Walmart, Loblaw Companies Limited, and many more, which allow Christmas Kettles to be placed at their stores each year.
