The Salvation Army (SA) in Williams Lake aims to raise $70,000 this year to support local food security through its 2024 kettle campaign.
Across the city, kettles or pots are set up by the organization’s local branch to collect cash or card donations.
“All money stays local to support those in our community who are perhaps struggling,” said Nathanael Hoeft, a lieutenant at the organization's local branch.
“Anything that people are able to give is greatly appreciated and it goes a long way,” Hoeft added. He also noted budgeting has become a challenge for many as the cost of housing rises, and food insecurity is a growing concern in the lakecity where the number of people accessing the SA’s food hamper program has increased over the last two years.
The kettle campaign is SA’s largest fundraiser and helps the organization run services such as the food bank. SA also runs free breakfast and lunch programs five days a week, as well as a drop-in facility with a shower and laundry available for those who need it. There are also outreach workers available to listen to and help guide those in need to the appropriate services.
There are more than 2000 locations with kettles across Canada, but donations made at Williams Lake kettles stay in Williams Lake. The lakecity’s campaign kicked off on Nov. 28 at FreshCo, where community members gathered in song to mark the occasion.
The red kettles can be found at six locations in the city until Christmas Eve, including FreshCo, Save-On-Foods, Wholesale Club, the Government Liquor Store, Walmart and Canadian Tire.
The organization is also looking for people to donate their time, as there are still shifts available to help out with the kettle campaign. Shifts are two hours long and typically run between noon and 6 p.m.
Hoeft said if no one is stationed at a kettle, donations can still be made by tapping your card.
