2023 Salvation Army Christmas Kettle Campaign kicks off

Not often the mayor, a local member of Parliament and the public gather to shake bells while singing in a park.

But if you were near Stuart Park Friday afternoon, you would have heard the small crowd singing as the Salvation Army kicked off its 2023 Christmas Kettle Campaign.

“We plan for so many months to make this day special and the next six weeks in the campaign to go nice and smoothly, so we’re really excited to launch,” Volunteer Coordinator, Angela Stadnyk told KelownaNow.

Volunteers will be at 13 different spots collecting donations in Kelowna, shaking their bells and creating a familiar noise so many recognize during the holiday season.

The funds raised will be used to feed and clothe those in need, as well as provide Christmas food and toys for children.

“For more than 104 years in Kelowna and surrounding areas, the kind-heartedness of donors and volunteers, help the Salvation Army restore hope and transform the lives of thousands in our community,” said Major Mark Wagner.

“We are able to do this only with the generous support of our community and our need this year has never been greater."

Currently, a little more than half of the volunteer shifts have been filled for this year’s campaign.

If interested in volunteering, phone 250-860-2329 (ext. 113) or email kelowna.kettles@salvationarmy.ca

“This is a really fun festive way to volunteer and really you just have to have a good little wrist jingle and that’s all you need,” Stadnyk said with a chuckle.

The volunteers will be accepting cash donations as well as donations made by tapping credit/debit cards.

Donations can also be made online at this link.