The familiar sound of jingle bells now rings at approximately 10 locations across Greater Sudbury, signalling the launch of the Salvation Army’s annual Christmas Kettle Campaign. This initiative marks the beginning of the organization’s heightened seasonal outreach, which also includes the Santa Shuffle charity run, both designed to support vulnerable community members during the holiday period. Community generosity fuels seasonal efforts Lieutenant Justin Russell of the Salvation Army emphasized the profound local support that underpins these campaigns. “The support that we get from the community each and every year. It just goes to show that Sudbury is a caring and generous community,” he said. Speaking with CTV News, the executive director of the Salvation Army’s Cedar Place shelter, Barbara Ridley, noted the particular significance of the season. “We run 365 days a year, but Christmas is a special time for the Salvation Army. It always has been,” said Ridley. “Not only do we want to make Christmas really bright for those that are in our home, but we also try to help people that are not necessarily in our homes. So, it’s a time of year to give.” Campaigns address sharp increase in local demand The organization stated that the need for its services in Sudbury has risen substantially, directly influencing the scope of this year’s campaigns. Russell explained the critical role that the kettle campaign plays. “This is our annual Christmas kettle campaign. This is our major fundraiser for the year. It helps to primarily support our Christmas Hamper Program, which this year alone has increased by over 300 households,” he said. “This year, we are assisting 1300 households.” Ridley echoed the sustained increased pressure on Cedar Place’s services as well. “We have been at 100% capacity, honestly, for the last three years, and we turn away probably 120 individuals every single month. So, the need is great.” Russell wanted to assure the public that donations remain local, saying, “All the funds that we raise go directly to supporting these programs that happen throughout the year.” Santa shuffle offers community participation opportunity The Santa Shuffle event on Saturday provides a direct way for residents to engage, with proceeds supporting vulnerable women and youths at Cedar Place. “This is a great event for anyone with all kinds of skill levels because we have a 1 km walk or shuffle, or run, and we have a 5 km walk, shuffle, or run,” Ridley The shelter director also expressed gratitude for the ongoing community backing that sustains their mission. “Our doors are always open, and we do we do survive on people that have learned to love the Salvation Army through their life and stop by and at our front door and help us out,” said Ridley. “We appreciate that and each and every gift is used very carefully.” The Santa Shuffle begins at 10 a.m. on Dec. 6 at the Delki Dozzi track. The Christmas Kettle Campaign will continue at locations across the city, every day except Sundays, until Dec. 24.
