Kettle campaign falling short

THUNDER BAY – With less than two weeks from final collection, the Salvation Army’s Christmas Kettle campaign is falling behind last year’s total.

Charity officials on Wednesday announced they have raised $96,536 in 2017, about $9,000 less than they had at this point last year.

“The stormy weather last week did have an impact on the campaign with stores closed, fewer shoppers in the open stores and volunteers unable to get to their kettle.  We are still confident that we will be able to achieve our goal but will need the community to continue supporting the campaign,” spokeswoman Gail Kromm said in a release.

Kromm added these funds are crucial in order to maintain local programs.

All proceeds raised help with Salvation Army’s Christmas needs and ensuring they are able to meet the needs throughout the coming year.

“Demands for our services continue with many people in the city struggling financially,” Kromm said.

Donations to the Kettle campaign will be accepted until Dec. 23 at the following locations: Superstore, Intercity Shopping Centre, Grandview Mall, Walmart-Memorial Ave., Walmart-County Fair, Walmart- Arthur St. Market, and the LCBO’s at Arthur St., Thunder Centre, and Dawson Rd. as well as the Kiwanis Tree Lot while they are open.

Beyond donating to The Salvation Army’s physical Christmas kettles, donations can be made on-line through the Thunder Bay kettle at: www.FilltheKettle.com.

Credit Card donations can be made by calling our local office at 345-6492 or donations can be mailed to The Salvation Army, 545 Cumberland St. N., Thunder Bay, ON  P7A 4S2.