This year’s Christmas Kettle Campaign held by the Salvation Army surpassed its initial fundraising goal of $150,000 and raised more than $270,000 for Greater Victoria residents in need.
An increase in the number of individuals and families in need of services has gone up this year due to COVID-19, a release said.
Funds raised through the campaign are used to provide essentials such as food, clothing, and shelter.
The organization also offers programs such as substance abuse recovery, housing supports, job training, and classes that help those struggling financially find a way out of poverty.
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Public and government affairs director for the Salvation Army, Patricia Mamic, said this has been a tough year for a lot of people. “Because of almost two years of living in a pandemic, a lot of people are still struggling. We are seeing a greater need and more than ever, we are relying on the public to help us meet the demand,” Mamic said.
Total funds are still being counted across B.C. and the Salvation Army is hoping to meet its provincial target of $5 million and a national $21 million goal.
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