Enough toys were donated during the Salvation Army’s annual Christmas Cheer program this year to help make birthdays brighter for many children in need this year.
“With the abundance of toys that were donated we are able to offer a birthday toy for our most needy food bank families, spreading the joy of giving over the remainder of the year,” said Captain Isobel Lippers in her letter of congratulations to the community.
Lippers said the Christmas kettle campaign raised more than $63,000 and an additional $60,000 was donated directly at the Salvation Army office.
With help from volunteers and generous donations of goods and funds, she said the Salvation Army Christmas Cheer program served more than 660 individuals, including more than 267 children.
“A heart felt thank you goes to everyone who donated so generously to the campaign,” Lippers said.
During 2015 as a whole the Salvation Army Community and Family Services program provided direct assistance to more than 38,000 individuals, in services valued at more than $614,900, Lippers said.
During the last couple of months, she said the Salvation Army has seen a five per cent increase in need for its food bank and meal programs, which are supported by these community donations.
“We thank the Williams Lake community for helping us meet that need,” Lippers said.
The donations of volunteer time and money help to support numerous Salvation Army programs including the food bank; emergency relief program; drop-in centre; breakfast and lunch programs; distribution of blankets, coats, toques, mitts, scarves, and winter boots; Christmas hampers; toys for kids, and the Christmas dinner.
In encouraging people to continue their support Lippers said that it is only through the generosity of the community that the Salvation Army is able to provide these services for people in need.
The Salvation Army is extending its appreciation to the community by hosting a volunteer appreciation luncheon this Saturday, April 16 at noon.
People are asked to reserve a place by calling 250-392-2423.