“Celebrating Christmas was going to be a struggle,” says Doreen, who is retired and raising her three-year-old granddaughter. “But thanks to The Salvation Army and its donors Tiffany had presents under the tree, we enjoyed all the fixings of a turkey dinner, and more.”

Doreen is one of thousands of Canadians who experienced the joy of Christmas because of the generosity of the Army's donors, volunteers and supporters.

Last year The Salvation Army helped more than 1.8 million people get back on their feet with services and programs such as food, clothing, shelter and life-skills programs.

While it is too early to calculate final results for its 2013 Christmas campaign, The Salvation Army will stretch donations as far as it can to as many people as it can.

“Whether you are an enthusiastic volunteer, a generous donor, or a compassionate event sponsor, I extend my heartfelt thanks to you for your continued support,” says Commissioner Brian Peddle, territorial commander.

“The impact of economic strife continues to widen its grasp and as The Salvation Army reaches out to more individuals and families. No one should be hungry, struggle to find a job or be forced to sleep on the street. Thank you for partnering with us to get people's lives on track and restore strength and dignity.”