Nine days before Christmas, the Salvation Army is launching a desperate appeal for volunteers. The agency reports its seasonal goal is off by nearly 50 per cent, simply because of a lack of people to staff its Christmas kettles. But that doesn’t mean volunteers like Gord Brown aren’t making every effort to be holly and jolly. “I get to wish a lot of people a Merry Christmas,” he told CTV News as he stood by a kettle at a west London grocery store. Brown has been volunteering for the Salvation Army for over a decade. “It does give you a good feeling to know that you’re helping some of the people in the community.” But this year, there just aren’t enough people like Gord to go around. More than 50 per cent of available shifts at kettles have not been filled. And when that happens, donations drop. This year, the fall has been dramatic. “We’re probably only halfway towards our goal,” said executive director Nancy Kerr. Last year, $580,000 was raised. Much of it supports Christmas programs. “So, without those funds, things like this (The Christmas Assistance Program) just wouldn’t be possible. We’re expecting to serve 5,500 children this Christmas, and it’s just vital for us to be able to get those funds to be able to do that,” Kerr said. While Brown and his wife commit 25 hours a year to kettles, anyone who can offer two hours or more is encouraged to sign up online or by calling 519-672-7792. Kerr said kettles are placed at more than 40 locations. “I think once you do it, once you get hooked. Then, you enjoy the experience,” she said. “I always go home with a nice feeling,” agreed Brown. “People are so friendly. So, it makes me feel good, and it makes me feel more like Christmas.”
