The Salvation Army Peterborough is preparing for its 2024 holiday fundraising efforts, aiming to raise $540,000 for its Hope for All Seasons Christmas Appeal and $125,000 through its annual kettle campaign. Funds raised during this time make up nearly 75% of the organization’s annual budget.
In 2023, the organization provided 2,435 hampers to local households, including 1,872 children and 652 teens, raising $523,000 for Hope for All Seasons and $123,000 from the kettles. However, due to a high volume of requests for assistance this year, the Salvation Army has been inundated with calls. Those still waiting for a response are encouraged to email Peterborough.christmas@salvationarmy.ca.
Among the key events to support the campaign is the Toy Tour, which will take place on December 7th from 9am to 5pm, hosted by Oldies 96.7 and Freq 90.5. This special toy drive encourages donations of new toys for local children and will be an important part of the Salvation Army’s holiday fundraising efforts.
Other events include the Peterborough Paramedics Toy Drive tomorrow, the Peterborough Petes Teddy Bear Toss on December 5th, and a Community Carol Sing on December 8th. Additionally, the Miracle Broadcast Toy Drive at Lansdowne Place will be held on December 14th and a Christmas Eve service is scheduled for December 24th at the Peterborough Salvation Army (219 Simcoe Street).
Alongside its Christmas support, the Salvation Army continues to serve the community with ongoing services such as a daily breakfast program, an emergency food bank, a money management program, criminal justice services, and a new Fee Waiver Program to assist people needing replacement ID.
(Written by: Scott Arnold)
