Salvation Army kettle campaign on track to beat goal

The sound of sleigh bells in malls across Saskatoon will soon be silenced as the Salvation Army kettle campaign draws to a close for another year.

Spokeswoman Heather Hedstrom said the local branch is well on their way to making their $275,000 goal. Last year the campaign raised $330,000 and the kettles are on par this year.

“The community of Saskatoon and area never ever ceases to amaze me,” Hedstrom said. 

Dec. 23 is the final day to donate at one of 18 locations across the city.
 
All the money raised helps pay for Christmas hampers for needy local families. This year the kettles, along with other donations helped pay for 1,350 boxes, up from 1,100 last year. Hedstrom said she would not be surprised if this year’s influx of Syrian refugees increases the amount of boxes they hand out next year.
 
“It really is a boost into their Christmas spirit. It’s almost like it’s the initial start where they’re able to have the same Christmas experience as everyone else.”

Hedstrom said 1,300 volunteers made the campaign possible. Some even went the extra mile to attract donations.
 
“Some people dress up. Lots of people sing carols, and when that happens there’s always lots of people standing around,” she said.