The final numbers are in, and the Yorkton Salvation Army had a successful Christmas season raising funds for its programming.
The kettle campaign raised just over $61,000, said Lieutenant Samuel Tim, noting the strong response was aided by an additional location with a kettle placed in the new Save On Foods. Other locations included the Parkland Mall, Liquor Board Store, Walmart and Superstore.
Tim said he had to thank those stores for providing the locations, as well as the volunteers who helped with the kettles throughout the season.
Overall, as of Dec. 28, $100,000 was raised, money which goes to funding programming throughout the year.
“I’ve been overwhelmed by the generosity of people in the city,” said Tim. “They really stepped up to help us out. People have responded to the call so we can help those in need…
“This really helps us. We do fundraising year-round, but Christmas is really our big push.”
Tim said while funds are utilized over the entire year, Christmas is also a busy time in terms of demand. Over the season 150 vouchers were provided to people without children.
In addition 270 toys were provided to families with children, with each child provided a gift valued at $80.
“It was a joy to see, parents really appreciated the toy,” he said.
Tim said a new program which worked well was where people could ‘adopt-a-family’. They would be given the ages and sexes of the children in a family and then provide the toys. The program will continue
Tim explained people with children could choose toys, or vouchers, but not both.
In addition to funds, Tim said they received a lot of food through the season, in particular through schools, and bolstered by a donation associated with the visit of the CP Holiday Train. As a result the food bank shelves are currently well-stocked.
The food bank is unfortunately seeing increased use.
“We have seen some increases, people who have come for the first time,” said Tim.
Tim said often people are reluctant to seek help, but he said that is why the Salvation Army operates the food bank, to help people when they need some help.
“That’s why we are here to offer support while you get back on your feet,” he said.
