As The Salvation Army launches its 2025 Christmas Kettle Campaign, a new national report highlights that managing limited financial resources remains the most common challenge for Canadians–with the cost of living continuing to top household concerns. With need rising in communities nationwide, The Salvation Army is calling on Canadians to give generously this holiday season.
Food insecurity and affordable housing are common threads that run through The Salvation Army’s work with vulnerable people in major cities and rural communities. Seniors are particularly struggling. Food bank usage has increased among seniors, with some having to rely on them for the first time. Last year, The Salvation Army’s community and family services saw a 3.6 percent increase in services and support for seniors, said the organization.
“Some of the stories we’re hearing across the country are heartbreaking,” says Lieut.-Colonel John Murray, territorial secretary for communications. “Families are facing impossible choices every day–between paying rent or buying groceries, purchasing medication or putting gas in the car. At The Salvation Army, we’re here to help shoulder those burdens and offer both practical support and hope.”
The Salvation Army’s Christmas Kettle Campaign, running now through Christmas Eve, is one of Canada’s largest and most recognized charitable fundraising efforts. Donations made at kettles and online directly support local programs that provide food, clothing, shelter, meal and breakfast programs, substance-use recovery, care for women and children fleeing domestic violence, and other essentials to individuals and families in need throughout the year, explained the organization.
With a national fundraising goal of $22 million, every donation to any of the 2,000 kettle locations across the country remains in the community in which it was given to support local needs. Most kettle units across Canada offer a safe and simple tap-and-go payment option to donate, it said.
John Murray
Last year, 345,000 visits were made to The Salvation Army for Christmas assistance, which includes toys and food hampers. All signs point to a continued rise in the need for help. The season becomes a time of survival rather than one of celebration, making support from The Salvation Army more important than ever.
“Every dollar dropped in a kettle helps change a life,” says Murray. “Thanks to the generosity of our donors, we not only provide immediate assistance but also help people rebuild their lives with dignity. Through job training, life-skills programs, and long-term supports, we’re helping Canadians find lasting hope and opportunity.”
Donations to the 2025 Christmas Kettle Campaign can also be made at SalvationArmy.ca, by calling 1-800-SAL-ARMY (725-2769) and via mail to The Salvation Army, 2 Overlea Blvd., Toronto ON M4H 1P4.
Mario Toneguzzi
Mario Toneguzzi is Managing Editor of Canada’s Entrepreneur. He has more than 40 years of experience as a daily newspaper writer, columnist, and editor. He was named in 2021 and 2024 as one of the top business journalists in the world by PR News. He was also named by RETHINK to its global list of Top Retail Experts 2024 and 2025.
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