An early-morning call with someone in Zambia to discuss project progress. A late-evening meeting with a colleague in Papua New Guinea to explore a new opportunity. In the international development department, much of our work involves collaborating with personnel in other Salvation Army territories.

Yet we recognize that significant and intentional efforts within our borders strengthen our territorial vision and mission, particularly in relation to one key pillar of our territorial strategy: Forge Innovative Partnerships. We have witnessed first-hand how meaningful partnerships are being built, allowing us to collaborate more effectively in supporting and advancing the mission of the international Salvation Army. 

National Recycling Operations (NRO) Thrift Stores

For several years, NRO and the Brighter Futures Children’s Sponsorship Program have built a strong, collaborative partnership, working together with the common goal of improving children’s futures. Each year, NRO runs a four-week campaign in stores across the country, inviting shoppers to donate at the checkout to support current Brighter Futures projects. Over the past few years, we’ve seen a tremendous increase in funds raised, with last year’s total reaching just over $107,000. 

Before the campaign begins, the international development department meets with thrift store managers to provide information, posters and videos about the projects. This helps employees engage with customers and encourage them to contribute.

For the past couple of years, the international development team has visited a thrift store after the campaign to receive a cheque. These visits give us an opportunity to thank the staff directly for their incredible partnership and support. In 2024, during a visit to the thrift store in Burlington, Ont., a picture that was for sale caught my eye. It beautifully represented the work we do, so we purchased it and proudly hung it on the wall in our department.

Last year, following the campaign, NRO brought several employees to our office so they could see where we work. They saw the picture we had purchased from their store hanging on the wall—a wonderful symbol of partnership and how we are all working together toward a shared mission. 

Youth Department

In partnership with the territorial children and youth department, we are jointly engaging young people across the territory in global mission through FUSE events. At each FUSE gathering, youth are encouraged to “fuse their funds” for a specific cause, learning that, together, their collective giving can make a real difference.

Last year, the youth department highlighted a Brighter Futures project focused on the prevention and mitigation of early marriages in Zambia. Through resources provided by the international development department, youth were able to get a glimpse into the realities faced by many young people in Zambia.

At the FUSE events, various ways of raising funds were presented, such as paying to pie your youth leader, purchasing snacks and buying camp merchandise. But beyond the financial impact of their donations, this partnership led to important conversations about justice and gender equality, helping youth understand that their generosity and advocacy can transform lives. 

Through this partnership, we’ve seen how empowering the next generation to care about global issues not only supports the international development department but also strengthens our territorial community. The passion, creativity and compassion of our young people continue to inspire us all. 

Women’s Ministries

In partnership with the international development department, the women’s ministries department plays a key role in supporting global mission through their annual territorial project fundraiser. Across the territory, women gather at camps, rallies and divisional events to learn about the project, pray for those involved and raise funds in creative and heartfelt ways. 

Last year, their focus was the Mirpur Clinic in Bangladesh. The clinic addresses key health issues, particularly tuberculosis and leprosy control, among vulnerable populations. Additionally, it aims to tackle social problems related to gender-based sexual violence. The clinic not only offers treatment and rehabilitation but also works to reduce stigma and restore dignity to those who have been marginalized.

Through prayer, generosity and determination, the women of our territory are making a lasting impact far beyond Canada’s borders.

While much of my time may be spent on calls with individuals all around the world, I am continually reminded that right here at home, partnerships are being forged that strengthen our collective mission. We are making a difference because we are stronger together.

To learn more about the work of the international development department and how you can become involved, visit salvationist.ca/international-development/home.

Major Heather Matondo is the assistant director of the international development department.