Salvation Army’s Christmas Kettle Campaign returning to Fort St. John

FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. — The Salvation Army’s Christmas Kettle Campaign is returning to the City of Fort St. John for 2024, with the goal of raising $150,000.

Patricia Budgell of the local Salvation Army branch joined Bernard on Moose FM to discuss this year’s Christmas Kettle Campaign.

“Throughout the year, we would use the funds raised for items for the food bank, vouchers for prescriptions, medical transportation support, and items that people need, whether it be winter clothing or things like that,” Budgell explained.

She says the campaign is a national program in which kettles are set up around the town, and funds are distributed locally around town. 

The campaign will run from November 14th to December 24th.

Volunteers who are willing to be set up at any of the six stations around the city and collect funds from anyone willing to help are needed. 

“We want everyone to have fun out there, having people out with smiling faces really do make a difference to our contributions,” said Budgell. 

The goal of this year’s campaign is to raise $150,000, which Budgell admits is a lot but very possible. 

“It’s a big goal, but I feel like the community in North Peace is just so great that we can actually make those Christmas wishes come true for people again this year,” said Budgell.

Last year, the Salvation Army raised $160,000 in Fort St. John.

Budgell thanked the Fort St. John community, the businesses that agreed to help, and everyone who agreed to support the organization’s efforts this year.

“Having the whole community involved is really heartwarming and special, really special to me. I love seeing everyone come together and being a part of it,” said Budgell.

More information about the campaign can be found on the Salvation Army’s website.