The Salvation Army is celebrating its 100th year in Yorkton, and the organization has an ambitious goal. According to Major Linda Mailman, the group wants to raise $100,000 with the "100 for 100" campaign.
Mailman says that the campaign is just starting, and already there has been an increase in the number of people pulling together donation drives and different ways to support the campaign.
"I think the people of Yorkton can pull through. They're wonderful, caring people and they're giving people."
She says that the Salvation Army is encouraging people to get involved in different ways, whether it's through just donations or by setting up events. The sky is the limit, Mailman says, and she says that the support in the community is enthusiastic, and she says that the food drives and other programs are a vital part of keeping the food bank going.
Money raised goes to helping keep the different programs going, whether it's Christmas vouchers, the food bank or the thrift store.
As well, it would be used to support sending children to camp in the summer who would not otherwise be able to go. Mailman says the majority of money raised in Yorkton stays within the region, supporting people who need it in the area.
The winter months are always a busy time, with the Salvation Army's larger campaigns coinciding with the Christmas season. The annual kettle campaign begins on November 29, and Mailman says that like always they are looking for volunteers to help out. She says those interested should call 306-744-2442.
As it went over well last year, this year will again see the Christmas dinner for those who need it handled by a voucher for the Co-op. Mailman says that allowing people to choose their own meal is something that many appreciate at the time. There will also be gifts of toys for children under 12. She says that the need continues to be great in the community.
"I was in the other day when the food bank was open and there were quite a number of people lined up waiting to get help for food," Mailman says.
It's been 100 years of helping people in the region, and Mailman says that their goal is to help people wherever they need it. She says that it's important whether it's local, whether it's where there's a natural disaster, or anywhere else there might be a need for their help. Mailman says that their goal is to continue helping people, and they credit their supporters with allowing them to continue that work.
"People are great, and we thank them for their support," Mailman concludes.
