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Vernon Salvation Army on 33rd Street. (file photo/Vernon Matters Staff)
Food bank demand rising

Vernon Salvation Army just shy of fundraising goal

Jan 15, 2024 | 12:35 PM

It is money that will be put to good use.

The Vernon Salvation Army, which runs the city’s main food bank, has announced its Christmas campaign raised $602,000, just short of the goal of $650,000.

Neil Thompson, the director of The Salvation Army ministries in Vernon, said they are very grateful for the support and generosity from the community, adding “it speaks of neighbours helping neighbours.”

“We raised $35,000 more than we did last year, however the need has grown significantly,” Thompson remarked. “The number of working families that are having to come to the food bank to help stretch their dollar has greatly increased over this past year.”

The funds were raised at the Salvation Army’s red kettles outside local stores, and through online and mail-in donations.

Thompson added they are grateful for the support of the business community, other churches and organizations and citizens for trusting The Salvation Army to put their hard earned cash to work in helping others.

“Even though we missed our goal, we will find a way to make it work,” Thompson said.

The Army’s Christmas support programs assisted over 500 local families, including providing toys or gifts to over 225 children.

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