Not everyone is fortunate enough to have a joy-filled Christmas, so the Salvation Army hopes residents will be generous again this holiday season and support its Stocking Campaign.
The non-profit organization is looking to raise $10,000 so it can direct all that money to its Christmas hamper program, explained Maj. Dan Broome. That money will be used to purchase gift cards from Safeway or the Co-op grocery store so they can be given to needy families in the community. Families with children also receive toys.
About 400 families applied to the Salvation Army last year for support during the Christmas season. The organization then handed out that many gift cards.
The Salvation Army decided four years ago that gift cards would let people shop how they wanted for their Christmas meal, Broome said. He pointed out times have changed and not every family wants a turkey dinner. Some residents are vegetarian, vegan, or prefer halal meat.
One year a family bought mostly rice and vegetables with the gift card they were given.
“We believe everyone deserves to celebrate the holiday and many people can’t afford it,” he continued. “We reach out to those who are marginalized and those who struggle to make ends meet, and therefore, they can’t do it (because they’re on) social services or minimum wage employment. Costs are rising (and) inflation is up. We want to ensure everyone can celebrate the holiday with dignity.”
The community has been generous in supporting the Stocking Campaign for several years, said Broome. He greatly appreciates the help residents have provided, stretching back to when the Times-Herald promoted the event.
“We are good stewards of the money entrusted to us,” he continued. “We don’t spend it frivolously. We really try our best to meet the needs of the community as they present themselves to us.”
Broome added that he is confident the Salvation Army would meet the $10,000 goal of its Stocking Campaign.
To support the campaign, bring your cheques and money to the Moose Jaw Express/Today office at 32 Manitoba Street. You will receive a receipt and have your name published in a future edition.
