Kettle campaign kickoff
Article content
As Bill Oliver prepared to 'unwrap' his 64th Salvation Army Christmas Kettle Campaign, he was as excited as any kid on Christmas morning.
"Every year," said Tillsonburg's most recognizable kettle steward at the campaign's official kickoff early Saturday afternoon inside the Town Centre Mall. "I can't wait for it to start and hate to see it go."
The experience hasn't gotten old for Oliver, ready for opening day 2013 since closing down number 63 on Christmas eve, 2012.
"I asked (Pastor) Ron (Ferris) if I could stand another month," he smiled.
Oliver's continued enthusiasm is mirrored by ongoing need within Tillsonburg.
"It's been growing every year since we've been here," said Pastor Ferris, noting 275 Christmas hampers were given out in 2012. "And we're building for at least 300 this year."
"We are kind of in a war against poverty even in our community," added Kettle Coordinator Lorraine MacDonald.
Those wishing to contribute can do so via kettles outside Walmart, the LCBO, Sobey's, Zehr's and Metro. Mail-in (Salvation Army Kettle Campaign, Box 74 Tillsonburg, N4G 3P7) and online (www.fillthekettle.com) options are also available, the latter with a 'Tillsonburg' tab where supporters can personalize their donation.
"People can actually go to Tillsonburg and fill whatever kettle they prefer," said Tillsonburg Salvation Army Community Ministries Coordinator Donna Acre.
Tax receipts are available for donations of $10 and over. Information is taken right at the kettle location and the receipt itself mailed out later. Money collected in Tillsonburg, stays in Tillsonburg Pastor Ferris emphasized (nationally, over 90% of funds collected go directly to those in need), supporting not only the Christmas hamper campaign, but also Salvation Army Family Service programs.
"Which are too numerous to mention."
Last year's campaign collected slightly over $38,000, down from the previous year and a $45,000 target.
"We usually aim for $45,000, so we're aiming there again," said Pastor Ferris.
The 2013 campaign kicked off with Tillsonburg's Kiwanis Santa Claus parade and runs daily from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. through to 2 p.m. Christmas Eve, a six-week period whose outcome is crucial to local operations.
"This is the big one, definitely," said MacDonald.
The kettles are familiar to Tillsonburg and area residents, who traditionally have been generous in their support.
"It's just a matter of reminding people," said Pastor Ferris.
"We never take it for granted," added MacDonald. "We all put so much prayer into this because it is so important."
Those seeking more information are welcome to call 519-842-3231 and those available as kettle stewards, are invited to phone 519-403-5914. Volunteers can sit as little as two hours, says MacDonald, who is more-than-willing to work within a flexible schedule.
"We're still looking for volunteers," she concluded.