Salvation Army in Ontario and nationally makes urgent plea as public donations down

The Salvation Army is making an urgent appeal to the public as donations are down even as demand for essential services is rising sharply across Ontario.

The charity says with fewer donations coming in through the Christmas Kettle Campaign, critical, immediate supports and year-round programs are now at risk.

“Our volunteers are working tirelessly ringing bells, but donations are down,” Capt. Gina Haggett, divisional director of public relations, The Salvation Army Ontario Division, said in a statement.

“As our Christmas Kettle Campaign is soon winding down, every donation matters because every gift supports families making impossible choices and helps put food on a table, keep someone warm, or provide shelter and support to a person in crisis.”

Last year, 1.5 million visits were made to The Salvation Army in Ontario for support that included food banks, meal programs and shelter, and Christmas assistance that recorded 89,344 visits for food hampers and toys.

Funds raised through the Christmas Kettle Campaign help ensure The Salvation Army can continue offering vital services such as community meals, homelessness prevention programs, school breakfast and lunch initiatives.

Meanwhile, the Christmas Assistance Program provides consistent support long after the holiday season ends.

Salvation Army makes same plea for donations nationally

Nationally, the Salvation Army is making the same plea across Canada.

“Our kettle bells are ringing, but far fewer donations are being dropped in,” Lt-Col. John Murray, territorial secretary for communications, said in a statement.

“This is a critical moment. Every dollar matters. Every gift helps put food on a table, keep someone warm, or provide shelter and support to a person in crisis. The need is urgent. When donations decline, real people are impacted. We are seeing more first-time requests for help than ever before – working families, seniors on fixed incomes, and individuals facing sudden and unexpected crises. We are committed to serving everyone who comes to us, but we cannot do this alone.”

Last year alone, more than three million visits were made to The Salvation Army for assistance nationwide.

“Our promise to serve – and to give hope today – has never wavered,” Murray said.

“Needs are rising, donations are down, and the window to act is narrowing. We urgently need Canadians to give today so hope can remain within reach for those who need it most.”

The Salvation Army urges Canadians to give today by donating at any of the more than 2,000 red kettle locations, online at SalvationArmy.ca, or by calling 1-800-SAL-ARMY.