As we all know Christmas is the season for receiving. But the Salvation Army is also reminding the public not to forget that Christmas is also a time for giving.
The organization held its annual Kettle Campaign kick-off Saturday at the Estevan Shoppers Mall. Major Len Millar informed those in attendance they had set a goal of raising $63,000 between their kettles and the Red Shield Appeal mail-out program.
All money raised goes towards the Salvation Army's numerous programs programs in Estevan including the Christmas hampers that are distributed to local families in need.
"We provide direct, compassionate hands-on service to more than 1.6 million people throughout Canada," said Millar. "We have been doing that in Estevan for 96 years and we are continuing to do that this year as well.
"Through our annual campaign and letter appeal we are able to continue to reach out and touch lives to make a difference and to give dignity. But we do need the support of the community. It is a partnership between the community and ourselves."
Millar said all money raised in Estevan will stay in the area. They are hoping to earn $18,000 through the Kettle Campaign and another $45,000 through the Red Shield Appeal.
"I want to thank the public for their support and the trust that they put in the Salvation Army at this time of year."
Estevan MLA Doreen Eagles brought greetings on behalf of the provincial government and urged the public to get behind the Salvation Army and the work they do for the less fortunate in the community.
"Christmas is a time of happiness, a time of sadness for some, but it also a time for giving and it's a time that we remember those less fortunate than us," said Eagles. "We never know when we are going to be on the receiving end of something like this. It doesn't matter how much you give, the important thing is to give and give from your heart. You can make a huge difference in somebody's life."
Mayor Gary St. Onge represented the City of Estevan at Saturday's kick-off and challenged residents to meet the goal of raising $63,000.
"We are famous in Estevan for supporting good causes and most of the time we exceed our goals, as we always do with the United Way," said St. Onge. "I see no reason why we shouldn't exceed it this Christmas as well. The Salvation Army is there 365 days a year helping us and there have been times in the past where we have had major problems and they have been there first thing to help us out.
Let's help them do the job that they do for us in the city."
Millar said they are still in need of volunteers to man the three kettles that are place throughout the city. If you are interested in volunteering you may contact him at 634-2074.
