Moose Jaw’s Salvation Army is on the hunt for residents that would be so kind to volunteer their time for a couple of their upcoming Christmas campaigns.  

The Salvation Army’s annual Christmas Kettle Campaign is a staple across Canada at stores and businesses, with volunteers ringing that bell to try and raise as much money as they can so others can have a wonderful holiday season. 

“You’re basically overseeing the kettle, expressing thanks to our donors that come in, and connecting with those and making sure that any money’s received comes back to the Salvation Army and it gets used for a good cause and giving back to the community,” says Lt. Lester Ward, the Salvation Army’s Director of Community and Family Services  

The campaign kicks off on Nov. 28 at the Moose Jaw Co-op grocery store, which will be one of seven locations across the city.  

Ward explains that the time commitment for those looking to volunteer isn’t much. 

“We’re currently looking for volunteers to do two or three-hour shifts at any of our kettles,” adds Ward.  

People will see the kettles out and about until Dec. 24, Monday to Friday from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., and then on Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. 

The more volunteers that are able to step up and assist the Salvation Army with its kettle campaign the more people they can help this holiday season.  

Another area where volunteers are needed is the Salvation Army’s annual Christmas Hamper campaign.  

The application process opens on Monday and the Salvation Army will be taking applications until Dec. 2. It is a three-week period, which is shorter than usual, but the Salvation Army wants to make sure they are ready for Christmas.    

“We want to make sure that we can meet as many people's needs as possible. Without the generous support of our volunteers, we could not do what we do here in Moose Jaw. From a volunteer perspective, yes, we need volunteers.” 

Last year, the Christmas Hamper had 345 applicants that served 745 people and helped 312 children with toys.    

Anyone that is interested in volunteering for the Salvation Army’s Christmas Kettle or Christmas Hamper campaigns can visit their Community and Family Services office at 175 First Ave. N.E or call 306-692-5899 to learn how to give back.  

Those wishing to give a monetary donation to help those in need can do so online through the Salvation Army Thrift Store’s website, mail a cheque to the Community and Family Services office or drop by the office during business hours Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.   

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