The kettles are coming out of storage and will soon be appearing all around town – a signal that Christmas is approaching.
The annual Christmas Kettle Campaign for the Salvation Army Gateway of Hope’s biggest fundraiser of the year.
All proceeds go to fund the Family Services Department at the Langley shelter.
Family Services helps those in need with community meals, clothing and material assistance, Christmas hampers, school supplies, the Skillet 101 cooking class, and more.
Every year, the Christmas Kettle Campaign runs from mid-November through Dec. 24.
This year’s campaign starts on Nov. 13.
Every day of the campaign, 20-plus locations need at least five volunteers each, to cover two-hour shifts – more than 3,000 shifts need to be covered.
“I really enjoyed my time as a kettle host last year,†said Natalie de Haan. “It’s an easy way to give back to my community, and it’s a fun experience.â€
A volunteer is asked to stand next to a red kettle while greeting customers as they enter shops. The kettle bells are rung to remind community members what time of year it is, and to remember those in need.
The Salvation Army welcomes those who play instruments or enjoy singing carols to share their talents at a kettle this season.
“The number of volunteers we have for the 2014 kettle season can make all the difference in this fundraiser,†said Troy Gaglardi, director of community resources at Gateway of Hope. “We ask community members to consider giving a small amount of time to this important cause.â€
Kettle volunteer applications are available at Gateway of Hope, or can be downloaded online at www.gatewayofhope.ca.