Northside Christmas kettle campaign underway
‘Each year the campaign is in dire need of volunteers, and this year is no different’
Year after year, Betty Wall has seen pocket change translate into hope and dignity for many people in need.
Wall, who has been volunteering with the annual Salvation Army Christmas Kettle Campaign on the Northside for nearly 20 years, is always amazed by the generosity of people.
“What does concern me is that each year the campaign is in dire need of volunteers, and this year is no different.”
Wall said its important for people to know that funds raised stay in the community where they are donated.
“I do this every year for the children and for those people less fortunate,” Wall said. “The Salvation Army is known for helping people with the basic necessities of life, whether they are down on their luck or in the event of a disaster or tragedy.”
Wall is always amazed at children’s reactions when they spot the kettle.
“They want to know why there is money in it and whether the money is mine,” she said. “I take the time to explain that the money is for children and families who may not have a turkey or gifts under the tree Christmas morning.”
Wall said there are times when people are waiting for her at the kettle with money in hand.
“I’ve had that happen numerous times, people never pass by the kettle without dropping in a donation, big or small.”
She added that being involved in the campaign puts her in the Christmas spirit.
“It comes from helping, and watching people willing to give to others, to people they don’t even know,” Wall said. “There is always so much support of this wonderful organization and what it does to help our communities, the Salvation Army is marvelous.”
She plans to continue to man the kettles as long as she is able.
“It’s a great way to meet people. Last year I was doing three days a week, this year I’m doing five.”
Last year’s kettle campaign on the Northside brought in $48,000.
“It isn’t getting people to donate that’s the issue, it’s getting enough volunteers to man the kettles — that’s the challenge,” said Sean Tobin, who has been organizing the campaign the past three years. “We need 25 people a day on the Northside to man five kettles. We really don’t know how much money could be raised because we never have enough people.”
The two-hour shifts start at 10 a.m. and finish at 8 p.m. at Sobeys, Superstore, the Nova Scotia Liquor Commission outlet and Wal-Mart in North Sydney and the Nova Scotia Liquor Commission outlet in Sydney Mines.
“We really are in desperate need of volunteers,” Tobin said. “We provide drives to and from the location for volunteers if required.”
Anyone who would like to volunteer can call Tobin at 902-5741141.
“The campaign continues until Christmas Eve so there is lots of time for people to slot in a few hours.”