The Salvation Army has kicked off the start of their annual Kettle Campaign on Monday.

Last year, the campaign didn't see as much success as usual. The pandemic created a shortage of locations and volunteers. However, this year is looking a bit more normal.

Kettles will be inside of their locations rather than outside. Also, with mandates and vaccinations volunteers seem to be less nervous about manning the pot.

The Salvation Army kicked off the campaign at the Real Canadian Superstore, home of one of the kettles. City Councilor Doug Blanc came to show the council's support. Mayor Clive Tolley couldn't make the event. The city's Communications Manager Craig Hemingway was also at the Kick off showing support from City Hall. As well as some time long-time volunteers from the church of the Salvation Army.

"In the midst of the busyness of the season, this is one of the greatest and biggest events that help us do what we do here," says Lieutenant Lester Ward, Pastor of the Salvation Army Church and the Director of Community and Family Services. He spoke at the kick-off along with his wife Lieutenant Alneta Ward.

Kettles can also be found at Safeway, Co-op, Walmart, Sobeys Liquor, Downtown Liquor, and the mall. People will see volunteers sitting with a tall stand that says 'Salvation Army' and attached to it is a hollow sphere that's opened at the top in order to hold any cash donations. This year, some stands will also offer a debit option for donations. All people have to do is tap their card on the $5, $10, $20 option and the donation will be automatically withdrawn from their account.

All of the proceeds from the fundraiser will be going back into the community of our friendly city, "Those funds that we receive... I want to assure you, it doesn't go back into the salvation army for us to spend as we like. The money that we receive from the Kettle Campaign goes towards meeting the needs of people within the community," says Ward.

The money will go towards food and clothing for families or individuals that need them. Also, Christmas toys for kids whose parents might be struggling. The money also goes towards sending kids to camp in the summer months.

Even though the campaign is officially on the go, the Salvation Army is still looking for volunteers interested in doing a few 2-3 hours shifts manning a kettle.

People interested can visit the Community and Family Services front office at 175 First Ave NE or call the office at 306 692 5899.