For the first time in two years, The Salvation Army Kettle Campaign is back up and running at full capacity.

"It's been the cornerstone of our fundraising, particularly for the last 100 years or so, for The Salvation Army," said Major Al Hoeft, divisional secretary for public relations for The Salvation Army. "It raises funds to help us provide support for families at Christmas time, but also to help support our programs throughout the year. 

This year, the goal is to raise $385,000. Currently, Major Heft says they are sitting below $200,000.

"We're a little concerned. At the same time, we're confident. We've been in this kind of situation before, and we've seen the city of Winnipeg step up and come around and support not just us but their neighbours as well."

Major Al Hoeft says this is a crucial year to give as they are seeing more people in need than they typically do.

"We're up about 20-25 percent with families that have come to us looking for support. We think that is a result of the current economic situation and coming out of the pandemic," Major Hoeft explained. "However, at the same time, we also recognize that a lot of our donors are facing a lot of that challenge, and maybe there is a little less disposable income."

Christmas Kettles have been set up at all of the malls in Winnipeg. They are also located in all Walmart, Costco and Superstore locations across the city. Donations can also be made online at salvationarmy.ca/donate. 

"The funds will help us take care of our Christmas programs, but not just that. It helps to provide services and supports to families year-round throughout the city of Winnipeg," said Major Hoeft. "Those are critical programs that families have come to rely on over the years. Being able to reach out to The Salvation Army in times of trouble is something we want to be able to continue. We want people to be able to reach out, and us be able to support them and have the resources, to be able to do that."

The kettle campaign runs until the afternoon of December 24, 2022.