Salvation Army Kettle Campaign now takes debit and credit cards

The Salvation Army ’s Kettle Campaign in Calgary is leaping into the digital age for the first time by accepting debit and credit card donations from Calgarians who don’t have cash and coin on hand.

The annual fundraiser runs from Nov. 16 to Dec. 24. But this year’s campaign will feature 20 donation kettles equipped with card readers, making it even easier for Calgarians to help the less fortunate this holiday season.

“Many people just don’t carry cash anymore,” Major Al Hoeft with the Salvation Army said in a statement. “We’ve listened to that feedback and are bringing in Interac machines for 20 of our locations to accept debit and credit card donations.

“It’s another way people can give to our campaign and help change lives.”

The Salvation Army hopes giving Calgarians a digital donation option will help the charity reach its $1 million goal faster than in past years.

Cash or cheque donations to the Kettle Campaign can still be made in person at any collection kettle, and the Salvation Army is still accepting donations online at www. FillTheKettle.com.

Last year’s Kettle Campaign got off to a great start thanks to $200,000 in sponsorships and private donations.

The Salvation Army even recruited Stampeder’s head coach Dave Dickenson for some added star power during the 2017 push to drive donations at Southcentre Mall.

All of the money raised in Calgary through the Kettle Campaign stays in the community and helps fund Salvation Army programs and services, the agency said.

The funds help individuals and families in need through emergency provisions, intervention, school supplies for youth in need and job training for out-of-work Calgarians.

ED KAISER Edmonton Salvation Army Major Al Hoeft holds one of 20 point-of-sale terminals across the city now accepting donations by debit and credit card during the Kettle Campaign, with volunteer Shannon Kidner behind him. The campaign runs until Dec. 24 with the goal of raising $1 million.