Christmas Kettle Campaign Kick-off

by Ontario Communications
Categories: Divisional News
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kettles

2009 GTA Goal – $2.5M

Campaign kick-off – November 19th, 2009
400 Christmas Kettle locations – Over 2000 Bell Ringers

Frequently asked questions:
What does the Kettle represent?

The origins of Christmas Kettles date back far more than you might guess. In 1891, Captain Joseph McFee wanted to help the poor people in San Francisco, especially for the coming Christmas season, but he didn’t know where to get funding for his project. He remembered, during his earlier days as a sailor in Liverpool, England, seeing a large Kettle called “Simpson’s Pot” where passengers of boats that docked at Stage Landing tossed coins to help the poor.

The following day captain McFee placed a pot at the Oakland Ferry Landing. Beside the pot was a sign that read “Keep the Pot Boiling”. He was able to collect enough donations to have a Christmas dinner for the poor people.

Today, Bell Ringers and Kettles are seen in many reputable stores and malls around the world. They use bells to attract the attention of passerby’s, some volunteers even sing Christmas carols or play musical instruments to raise donations

How does my donation make a difference?

Each year The Salvation Army brings hope to thousands of families by providing food, clothing and practical assistance and of course Christmas toys and dinner during the holiday season. Other programs funded by the Christmas Kettle Campaign include food banks, shelter services, ESL classes, community feeding programs and sending kids to camp. The Salvation Army is the largest non-governmental direct provider of social services in Canada.

How can I get involved?

The Salvation Army depends on support from individuals and groups in the community. Consider the different ways to participate this Christmas.

  1. Become a Bell Ringer and stand by a Kettle. Shifts are typically 2 to 4 hours long and can be indoors or outdoors.
  2. Participate in The Salvation Army iKettle program and hosting your own online Kettle. You can customize your iKettle web page and invite others via email to donate and fill your Kettle. For more information visit www.SalvationArmy.ca/ikettle.
  3. Companies, service clubs and other organizations can sponsor a Kettle. Your group will be recognized on our website and a sign will be placed by the Kettle stand, highlighting your generous support of the Christmas Kettle Campaign.
  4. Donate to the Kettle when you pass by and know that you are doing your part to make Christmas special for those in need in your community.

For more information on how you can get involved please email pamela_loveless@can.salvationarmy.org who will put you in contact with your local Salvation Army Christmas Kettle Coordinator.