A call for more people to volunteer at the Salvation Army Christmas Kettles

Many of those leaving the Remark store in west London didn’t hesitate to drop a few dollars into one of the Salvation Army’s familiar kettles.

The key is making sure people get that opportunity, and Salvation Army London Executive Director Nancy Kerr said that’s proving to be a challenge this year, "Our kettle shifts are about 40 per cent empty. If we can get them filled, we will reach our goal."

Kerr said in most years, at least 70 per cent of kettle shifts are filled.

The kettle campaign primarily goes to support the Salvation Army Christmas Assistance Program.

The London campaign is at about 50 per cent of the $650,000 goal.

Nationwide, the Canada Post strike has also impacted fundraising efforts.

Rotarians Toni O'Connor and Shayne Mann volunteer with the Kettle Campaign on Dec. 13, 2024. (Gerry Dewan/CTV News London)

Kerr said the challenges come at a time when the need continues to grow, "Life is more expensive for everybody. The same with the Salvation Army and for the services we provide, it costs us more to do that."

On Friday afternoon, Rotarians Shayne Mann and Toni O’Connor were volunteering their time. Mann is new to Rotary and new to London and wanted to lend a hand, "I’m always walking by the kettles and seeing the volunteers there and always have been appreciative of them. You take their time to do that. And so I thought it was time for me to step forward and to do that myself."

Mann said Rotary and the Salvation Army share many goals and values, "A particular focus on food security because we know the need in our community, as in every community across the country and beyond."

Kerr said the shifts are often no more than two-hours long, "No longer than a cheesy hallmark Christmas movie. And much more rewarding."

Kerr is encouraging those interested to go to the volunteer page on their website or call 1-866-670-BELL (2355).