The Salvation Army Ridge Meadows Ministries started its annual kettle campaign on Nov. 18, and will be working to raise more money than ever.
The goal is $200,000, and executive director Dave Macpherson said that’s simply based on the increase in need. The funds will be well used by a city where people have been hit by inflation, sky-high gas prices, and a tough economy.
There won’t be a ceremonial campaign kickoff in Maple Ridge on Friday.
“We’ll put the kettles out and ring bells,” said Macpherson. “We’re going to get right to work.”
Last year, the campaign raised a record $138,000, which was well above the $90,000 goal.
READ ALSO: Record-breaking year for Salvation Army Ridge Meadows Christmas kettle campaign
There will be kettles at 18 high-traffic locations throughout the community this year, and volunteers are being recruited to be at the kettles and ring bells through two-hour shifts.
“It’s a great experience, and it’s a lot of fun,” said Macpherson. “Firstly, you’re raising money for the community, and you can feel good about that. And secondly, you get to meet a lot of people.”
Families and groups of co-workers often get involved, and sing Christmas carols for shoppers.
“You can give us as many shifts as you want – one or one hundred,” said Macpherson.
One local family takes two or three shifts every week. Dan and Judy Rohl, with their daughter Amanda Angus and “Uncle” Tom Middelveen make up the Cool Thing Quartet, and play their saxophones at the kettles.
“I love it. The whole reason is to give back to the community,” said Judy. This is way of paying it forward, and we have so much fun.”
A dedicated volunteer over many years was Stuart Richardson, and now the former school principal is the kettle campaign coordinator. He needs to fill 2,200 shifts, and 4,400 volunteer hours. He said there are still many hours to fill.
Richardson also enjoyed his experiences as a bell ringer.
“It’s connecting with your community in a very real way,” he said.
Those interested in doing a volunteer shift, or shifts, can call him at 604-838-9813 or email rmkettles@salvationarmy.ca.
Macpherson is optimistic they will hit their goal, noting this year they have the advantage of being able to take plastic – with tap capabilities at every kettle. Not relying an increasingly cashless society to be carrying change could be a game-changer, he said, and could raise the bar to that $200,000 in donations.
“We’re working hard to make that happen,” he said.
“Thanks in advance to the good people of Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows for all your support.”
READ ALSO: Maple Ridge downtown park to light up on Nov. 26
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