Eighty-Two-Year-Old Volunteer Helps to Spread Christmas Cheer

When Ted Munns’ wife of 52 years passed away following a battle with cancer, his life came to the lowest point ever imagined. Today, he is a faithful volunteer with The Salvation Army and says the experience has restored his sense of purpose, filled a tremendous void in his life and makes him feel more connected to his community.

Munns’ connection to The Salvation Army came in 2015 after the death of his wife, Fern. “I was looking for a place to hold her Celebration of Life ceremony,” says Munns. “A neighbour suggested I contact The Salvation Army in Oshawa, Ont. I was overwhelmed at the kindness, compassion and love I received when I walked through the doors. Fern’s funeral was held there and, over the next several months, my interaction with the church and its members ignited in me a desire to serve others.”

You get a firsthand look at the needs that exist and you are directly involved with meeting those needs.

Throughout the year, Munns sorts and distributes food at the Army’s food bank and at Christmastime he packs food hampers, sorts toys and stands at one of its iconic kettles where funds raised go directly to give hope to the struggling individuals and families in his community.

“For many years I volunteered as treasurer for various community groups,” says Munns. “Volunteering with The Salvation Army is different. You get a firsthand look at the needs that exist and you are directly involved with meeting those needs. That is satisfying.”

Munns says that one of the most rewarding things about volunteering at the kettle is the feedback he receives.

“Some comments shake me to the core,” says Munns. “One young gentleman, looking somewhat disheveled, said he had only a few coins to put in the bucket. But he wanted to give something because when he was in jail a visit from The Salvation Army helped him get his life back on track.

“Then there was the gentleman who explained that after a house fire, The Salvation Army was on the scene immediately providing clothes and food, and that was a gesture he’d never forget.”

To learn more about volunteering with The Salvation Army, please visit our application page.