YORKTON – The Yorkton Salvation Army officially launched its annual Christmas Cheer Kettle campaign Nov. 16 at the Parkland Mall.
Kicking off the donations were City Councillor Dustin Brears and Stan Gibler from the Antique Car Club Association.
With the goal of raising $120,000, this year's campaign is being led by Edith and David Dean, retired pastors from Regina who were asked by Salvation Army leadership to oversee the Christmas program in the Yorkton area.
“We hope to raise that money so that we can provide food hampers and toys for the children for Christmas," said Dean, adding, "but also the money is used throughout the year to provide for the families that come seeking help at our food bank."
The Christmas Cheer Kettles are currently set up in four locations: Parkland Mall, Save On Foods, Superstore, and Walmart. Volunteers will be at those locations every day from Nov. 27 until Dec. 23. The kettles will be manned by volunteers from 10:00 AM until 6:00 PM.
However, Major Dean noted that they are still in need of volunteers for the Christmas Cheer Kettles.
“It takes a lot of volunteer hours to be able to fill all those spaces,” said Dean.
Dean said Volunteers can work in two-hour shifts or longer, and anyone interested in volunteering can contact her at (639) 571 – 1043.
Despite the challenges, Major Dean remains optimistic about the campaign.
“I’m sure that as people come forward and as people volunteer we’ll be able to meet our goal,” said Dean.
City Councillor Dustin Brears expressed his support for the campaign.
“On behalf of the City of Yorkton we’re extremely excited to kick off the Salvation Army Campaign,” said Brears, adding, “over 2000 kettles across the country and four right here in Yorkton. The Salvation Army does so many good things in this community.”
Major Dean also expressed her gratitude to the community for their continued support.
“I just want to say thank you to the people of Yorkton for all that they have done in supporting the work of the Salvation Army,” said Dean, “we look forward to a prosperous campaign.”
