(above) The Salvation Army thrift store in Thunder Bay, Ont., held a hot dog sale in support of the Army’s Send a Kid to Camp campaign, joined by members of ATU Local 966 and Journey to Life Centre staff

From May to June, National Recycling Operations’ Send a Kid to Camp GoodWorks@Work campaign raised funds to send children from a range of backgrounds to Salvation Army camps across Canada.

In total, the campaign raised more than $122,000 through 98 thrift stores, enough to send 490 kids to camp. Funds raised by the stores stay in the division in which they were collected to send local kids to camp.

“As we get back to some normality, the Salvation Army camps will be a highlight for many children living in the challenges of today. We are thankful to be a part of this mission for the children in Canada,” says Ted Troughton, managing director, National Recycling Operations.

Salvation Army camping ministries offer children an opportunity to rest from the strain of sometimes difficult home lives, giving them a safe environment to develop their confidence, self-awareness and independence.

“Our staff are very passionate about the campaign. We explain to guests every chance we get about the importance of kids going to camp,” says Patricia Wallis, manager at the Salvation Army thrift store in London, Ont., which has successful campaigns each year. “The kids we send are from low-income families, who otherwise may not have a chance to go to camp. Having a passionate local community also helps. It’s not a one-person show, it’s the whole team that makes a difference.”

Photo: Marianna Foster

This story is from: