The Salvation Army will kick off the 2016 Christmas Kettle Campaign at the Hope in the City Luncheon on Thursday, November 17 from 12:00 p.m. – 1:30 p.m. at the Hyatt Regency (700 Centre Street SE). Political commentator and media personality Mr. Rex Murphy is the event’s key note speaker.

“This has been a tough year for many individuals and businesses in Calgary,” says Scott Taylor, member of The Salvation Army’s Calgary Citizens’ Advisory Board. “But no matter what our own situation is, we need to remember that there is someone out there who is worse off than us. We need to dig deep to ensure The Salvation Army can provide help and hope for Calgarians going through these tough times.”

Calgary businesses have dug deep and delivered over $100,000 in sponsorships for the Hope in the City event. Additionally, Mr. Gerry Wood, owner of Wood Automotive Group, and his family will make the first Christmas Kettle donation of the season by presenting The Salvation Army with a $100,000 donation at the event.

“We are so grateful for this incredible start to our campaign,” states Karen Livick, Salvation Army Community Services Calgary Executive Director. “People who have never used our services before are coming through our doors every day. People who have never been out of work in their lives have been faced with prolonged unemployment due to the economic downturn and they are wondering how they are going to provide Christmas for their families this year.”

The Salvation Army Christmas Kettle Campaign runs from November 18 to December 24 at malls and stores throughout Calgary, Cochrane and Airdrie.

Donations are also accepted online at www.fillthekettle.com.

The campaign aims to raise one million dollars to provide programs and supports for individuals and families in Calgary at Christmas and throughout the year.

Photos from the Hope in the City event…