The bells are jingling and the pots collecting — it’s that time of year. The Kettle Campaign begins as of Nov. 18.
Its timing could not be better. In a press release, the Sunshine Coast ministries say they’ve seen a 15 per cent increase in need for food hampers and food recovery programs, as the cost of groceries and everyday items continues to rise. This year, more than 400 individuals have been helped through food programs on the Coast. Organizers have served 15,000 hot meals, distributed daily bread and produce to 10,000 visits, and provided more than 1,400 food hampers. So far, 75,000 pounds of food has been diverted from the landfill. The Salvation Army thrift stores in Gibsons and Sechelt have distributed more than $3,000 in vouchers for clothing and household items. The Hope Cafe in Gibsons has reopened weekdays from 10 a.m. to noon to provide hot drinks, snacks and socialization to anyone.
As for the Kettle Campaign, all of the funds raised go to people in need on the Sunshine Coast. This year’s goal on the Coast is $68,000. Provincially, the Kettle Campaign aims to raise $5 million.
Organizers are looking not just for donations, but for helping hands collecting those donations. Volunteers can sign up as individuals for a one or two-hour shift at one of the seven locations. Groups can sign up for a collection spot or sponsor a kettle. Businesses are invited to match kettle funds collected on one or more days, sponsor or co-sponsor a kettle ($500 or $250 respectively), set up a kettle at a holiday party or sign up for hosting a kettle at one of the seven locations.
Interested? Contact find more information at sunshinecoastsa.ca/kettles, email kettlecampagin@eastlink.ca or call Darrell at 604-740-7331.
