Salvation Army to “Share the Warmth” this Christmas Season
Residents of Prince Albert, Sask., have been experiencing extreme cold weather. Temperatures have already reached -20 C, weeks before winter even officially begins. For The Salvation Army, this has increased the need for winter clothes, as more clients than usual are coming in asking for winter coats.
Major Ed Dean of the Prince Albert Salvation Army is asking residents to share with those in need this holiday season to ensure everyone can keep safe and warm.
“Winter is cold and long, so please help your neighbours and friends. Share the warmth by giving them a coat, toque, or a pair of gloves. It may help save somebody’s life,” he said.
The need for winter wear goes beyond the high demand. Major Dean urges donors to ensure that whatever article of winter clothing they donate, is still suitable to be worn in extreme weather conditions.
“Winter is cold and long, so please help your neighbours and friends.”
“Some weeks we’ve had to serve 35 people in one day for jackets and the problem is that sometimes we don’t have a jacket for everyone,” Major Dean said.
Major Dean thanks all the donors that contribute to the cause each year. He would like to remind everyone that donations of ski pants, gloves, toques, and other winter wear items are gladly accepted, as these are often overlooked. Many of the clients that come in for assistance tend to ask for such items in addition to coats.
For those interested in helping, but who don’t have extra clothing items to give, Major Dean encourages them to support The Salvation Army’s Christmas campaign with monetary contributions.
“Contributing to a kettle this time of year, helps us to be able to provide for those in need.”
“Our bell-ringing season is in full gear, and contributing to a kettle this time of year, helps us to be able to provide for those in need. People can also donate for this specific cause (winter wear), the donation will get earmarked, and we will ensure the proceeds go towards providing someone with winter wear,” Major Dean said.
On Dec. 18, The Salvation Army at Prince Albert received a large donation of winter clothes and Christmas toys from the local Rotary Club. On behalf of The Salvation Army, Major Dean would like to thank the Prince Albert Rotary Club for their generous contribution.
The Salvation Army is committed to providing clothing assistance to those in need.
By Juan Romero
