The Salvation Army in Canada raised over $23.5 million through its 2016 Christmas kettle campaign, surpassing its $21-million goal.

“We are truly grateful for the continued support of our donors, volunteers and community partners, who enable us to help 1.9 million struggling Canadians during the Christmas season and throughout the year,” says Commissioner Susan McMillan, territorial commander, Canada and Bermuda Territory.

As demand for services continues to grow across the country, The Salvation Army will use the additional money to fund much-needed services that help vulnerable people with basic necessities such as food, clothing and shelter. Donations also make it possible for The Salvation Army to continue to provide a wide range of life-changing programs such as housing supports, job and skills training, budgeting assistance, computer literacy and substance abuse recovery, which help to improve lives and break the cycle of poverty.

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.

The Salvation Army's success during its Christmas kettle campaign also comes from the support of its corporate partners that include Walmart Canada, Loblaw Companies Limited, Costco, Kellogg Canada, BC Liquor Stores, LCBO (in Ontario), Canadian Tire, Cadillac Fairview, Metro, Safeway, Save-on-Foods, Sobeys, Bass Pro Shops, Krispy Kreme, and many more, who allow Christmas kettles to be placed at their stores each year.

“Without our corporate supporters, The Salvation Army's Christmas kettle campaign would not be successful,” says Commissioner McMillan. “Their support helps us not only to raise awareness of our programs and services but also to extend our reach to the thousands of vulnerable people who rely on us every day for hope and help.”

More information about the Army's work can be found in our Annual Review at: http://salvationarmy.ca/annualreview_1516.