With just a few days left before Christmas, the Salvation Army in Grande Prairie is still well behind its kettle campaign goal for the season. Captain Peter Kim says so far, just more than $363,000 has been brought in.
“We are short from our $500,000 goal. We’re hoping the community will pull through just like they did for us last year.”
The local Sally Anne set a half a million dollar goal in 2017 as well, bringing in $473,000 by the end of the year. Kim hopes that between mail-in donations and last minute giving that enough will raised to cover operations for 2019.
Part of that will help run a new food truck canteen to help serve first responders at emergencies and people in need. Use of the Salvation Army is increasing, and Kim says they’re trying to keep up.
“We know that there are people coming to the community that’s new to try and find work… but we’re also seeing people who are going through tragedies of their own – personal ones and financial ones – who need a little help along the way.”
Close to 700 hampers have been given out so far, and nearly 1,000 have been prepared in case people come last minute. Kim says volunteers are also needed for a few last bell ringing shifts on Saturday and Monday morning. To sign up, call 780-538-2848.
