Two important campaigns are underway at the Salvation Army Gateway of Hope for the holidays – kettles and Christmas hampers.
Gateway provides Christmas hampers for seniors, individuals and couples without children in the 91Ô´´s.
But that involves lots of planning and organization so the deadline to register is Friday, Dec. 6.
"We’re gearing up do about 400 hampers this year," explained Andréa Voss, Gateway's family services coordinator.
People can register in a few ways. They can call Gateway at 604-514-7375 or stop by in person during regular hours of operation. It's at 5787 91Ô´´ Bypass. Another method is online at www.gatewayofhope.ca/gateway-programs/christmas-hamper-program.
"Hampers are being delivered on Friday, Dec 20," Voss said. "We are also accepting donations of non-perishable food items for our hamper program."
As for the kettle campaign, it brings in funds for Gateway's social programs.
The kettle campaign started Friday, Nov. 15. Volunteers and workers will be out there ringing those bells by the red buckets at various locations until Christmas. Gateway has teamed up with various community groups such as Pathways and Stepping Stone to provide volunteer opportunities for its clients.
"The kettle campaign is The Salvation Army Gateway of Hope’s largest fundraiser of the year and helps to support our community programs such as, daily community meals and food hampers for the holidays," said Jasmine Singh, Gateway's fundraising coordinator.
The Salvation Army started in England in 1862. It began its work in Canada in 1882. The kettle campaign has been running for more than 130 years and started in Canada in 1903.
"Money raised in 91Ô´´ stays in 91Ô´´," she noted. "Donations collected will not be sent across the country, but rather, will remain here to serve our community."
Anyone interested in signing up to help with kettles can find more information on or its Facebook page.
"We appreciate the community coming together to support the work we do, and all those who volunteer with us," she added.