Today marks the national launch of The Salvation Army's 2015 Christmas Kettle Campaign. Now in its 125th year, the annual holiday campaign seeks donations from the public to help millions of Canadians living in poverty.

With a $21-million fundraising goal, the campaign enables local Salvation Army units in 400 communities across Canada help individuals and families with the basic necessities of life, such as food, clothing and shelter. Contributions also allow The Salvation Army to continue operating life-changing programs, such as substance abuse recovery, housing supports, job and skills training, budgeting and education classes, which help people find a way out of poverty, permanently.

“The Salvation Army has provided hope and dignity for more than 130 years through the generosity of our donors and volunteers,” says Major Les Marshall, territorial public relations and development secretary. “Hosted at more than 2,000 locations across Canada, the annual Christmas Kettle Campaign is the Army's largest fundraising drive of the year and would not be possible without the thousands of kettle workers who volunteer their time.”

Every donation to a Christmas Kettle remains in the community in which it was given, in order to help local people in need. Last year, The Salvation Army helped over 1.85 million people in need. More information about the work of The Salvation Army can be found in our Annual Review.

Each year, The Salvation Army relies on the support of numerous corporate partners, including Loblaw Companies Limited, Walmart Canada, Costco, BC Liquor Stores, LCBO (in Ontario), Canadian Tire, Cadillac Fairview, Metro, Safeway, Save-on-foods, Sobeys and many more, who allow Christmas Kettles to be placed at their stores each year.

Beyond donating to The Salvation Army's physical Christmas Kettles, donations to the 2015 Christmas Campaign can be made at www.FilltheKettle.com, www.SalvationArmy.ca, by calling 1-800-SAL-ARMY (725-2769) or via mail to The Salvation Army, 2 Overlea Blvd, Toronto, ON M4H 1P4.

Supporters can also host their own online kettle and encourage their friends, family, neighbours and coworkers to donate to The Salvation Army. These online kettles can be created at www.FilltheKettle.com.

Donors can also support the 2015 Christmas Campaign by texting HOPE to 45678 from most mobile carriers in Canada. A $5 donation will be added to your monthly mobile bill.

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