Former Beach Radio account executive Ryan Doherty mans a kettle for the Salvation Army's 2022 Christmas campaign at the Village Green Shopping Centre. (Vernon Matters file photo)

By Pete McIntyre

Christmas fundraiser

Vernon Salvation Army sees ‘significant increase’ in demand as Kettle campaign opens

Nov 17, 2023 | 6:00 AM

The Salvation Army kicks off its annual Christmas Kettle campaign today with an event outside Save On Foods at the Village Green Shopping Centre.

People can stop by and enjoy hot drinks, cookies and door prizes from 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., with Beach Radio on location.

The campaign is looking to raise $650,000 for its programs and services, like the food bank, which continue to see higher demand.

In the Vernon area, over 330,000 pounds of food was distributed to those in need over the last 12 months and more than 1,100 families have been helped.

Last Christmas, 500 hampers were provided to families in need and gifts were provided for 341 children.

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“We have seen a significant increase in the number of families that are looking to The Salvation Army food bank over this last year. With rising food costs, even families with secure employment are struggling to make ends meet,” Neil Thompson from the Vernon House of Hope said

During the fires this summer in the Thompson/Okanagan, the Salvation Army said it served 27,652 meals, provided 43,910 drinks and passed out 35,268 snacks.

The ‘Sally Ann’ is always looking for more volunteers to help ring the bells at the kettle locations.

You can get more details and make a donation on their website.