Salvation Army Christmas Campaign Falls Shy of $21 Million Goal

Canadian Public Gives Generously Despite Economic Troubles

TORONTO, Jan. 15, 2013 /CNW/ - Donors, volunteers, sponsors and partners across Canada helped The Salvation Army's 2012 Christmas Kettle Campaign collect $20.6 million, just short of the Army's $21 million goal. With nearly 2,000 kettles nationwide, economic conditions played a factor in the public's overall giving. Despite not reaching the fundraising goal, The Salvation Army will put all donations towards funding programs to reduce poverty and aid those in need.

"We've felt the effects of increased need over the last few years now," said Graham Moore, Public Relations and Development Secretary for The Salvation Army in Canada and Bermuda. "We're incredibly grateful for the continued generosity Canadians showed us this Christmas season in raising over $20.6 million. Monies raised will help provide Canada's most vulnerable with not only food, shelter and clothing, but also dignity and hope."

2012 marked the 130^th anniversary of The Salvation Army's work in Canada, as well as the country's 106th Christmas Kettle Campaign. In 2011, more than $21 million was raised in kettles nationwide. In addition to physical kettles located on street corners and shopping centres across the country, donors also had the option to give online through www.FilltheKettle.com.

"Without reaching this year's fundraising goal, The Salvation Army will work harder than ever to make every dollar stretch further and will continue to meet demand at our programs," said Moore. "We are humbled year after year by the generosity of Canadians across the nation. Without such kindness, The Salvation Army would not be able to continue our mission of Giving Hope Today."

The Salvation Army's Christmas Kettle Campaign helps provide direct, compassionate, hands-on service to more than 1.8 million people in Canada each year.  The annual campaign has grown into one of Canada's most significant and recognizable charitable events. The Salvation Army relies on the support of numerous corporate partners, including Walmart, Loblaw Companies Limited, and many more, which allow Christmas Kettles to be placed at their stores each year.

About The Salvation Army
The Salvation Army is an international Christian organization that began its work in Canada in 1882 and has grown to become the largest non-governmental direct provider of social services in the country. The Salvation Army gives hope and support to vulnerable people today and everyday in 400 communities across Canada and more than 120 countries around the world. The Salvation Army offers practical assistance for children and families, often tending to the basic necessities of life, providing shelter for homeless people and rehabilitation for people who have lost control of their lives to an addiction. When you give to The Salvation Army, you are investing in the future of marginalized and overlooked people in your community.

News releases, articles and updated information can be found at www.SalvationArmy.ca

SOURCE: THE SALVATION ARMY