The sound of hope rang through Orillia on Thursday evening as Orillia's Salvation Army began its annual Christmas kettle campaign.
During an evening of hot chocolate and Christmas carols at the Orillia Citadel, local Salvation Army officials unveiled their goal of raising $210,000 over the next five weeks, which is $10,000 more than last year's goal.
Captain Josh Howard says the annual goal has increased due to an elevated need for the services they provide at the Salvation Army.
"The prices of the day-to-day items that all of us need and use have increased," he said. "The workforce isn't quite the same as it was and making ends meet isn't as easy as it once was."
Howard says the Salvation Army has been serving working families and retired seniors more than ever before.
"We are glad to be able to provide that support," he said. "But we are only able to do that because of the donations of Orillians."
Due to the postal strike, the local Christmas mail-out has been put on hold. Howard is encouraging people to make their donations in person this year.
"People can donate throughout the community where they see our red kettles," Howard said. "They can find us in different stores and shops around town."
Donations can also be made at the Salvation Army's 157 Coldwater Rd. W. office or by phone by calling 705-326-3284.
Last year, the kettle campaign raised over $226,000 in Orillia. Howard credits volunteers for the success.
"There are countless volunteer hours that go into this campaign," he said. "The need is great."
Last year, more than 700 volunteers donated 2,370 hours to the kettle campaign. If you have some time to give, Howard encourages volunteers to call 705-345-2601 to arrange a date and time to ring the bells.
"The impact that can be made by a volunteer giving an hour of their time is so important," Howard said. "It reminds people that the Salvation Army is in Orillia, and it reminds people of what we do and the lives that are changed."
The kettle campaign is a holiday tradition that has been supported by Orillians for over a century.
"It's an iconic Christmas tradition for so many people," Howard said. "Nationally, it's the Salvation Army's biggest fundraiser and we see that locally as well."
The Salvation Army will also be making more than 700 Christmas hampers this year for over 560 households in the Orillia area.
"We are looking for non-perishable food items," Howard said. "We are also looking for new and unwrapped toys."
Donations can be dropped off at the Salvation Army's office during business hours throughout December. Howard says donations can help to not only fill somebody’s cupboards but also their heart.
"To know that there's someone that cares for them, that can be pretty amazing," Howard said. "We can provide that hope that we all sometimes need."
Last year, the Salvation Army donated hampers to 579 households and provided children with 1,078 toys and gifts.
Howard thanks the community for always supporting the Salvation Army during the holiday season.
"The amount of support is huge, but so is the need," he said. "To see the community step up to support is an amazing thing to see."
Orillia Mayor Don McIsaac says the Salvation Army is an integral part of the community that provides support, hope, and compassion for those in need.
"As we gather here for this special celebration, we are reminded of the incredible impact that the Salvation Army has had on the lives of so many individuals and families," he said. "They have been a beacon of light and support in our community."
Through the spirit of unity, McIsaac says it is time for Orillians to come together to celebrate and honour the legacy of service the Salvation Army has built over the last century.
"I'd like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to the staff and volunteers and supporters of Salvation Army in Orillia," he said. "Your unwavering commitment to serving others has made a positive difference in our community and it's truly inspiring. It's not gone unnoticed, and it's greatly appreciated."
