The Salvation Army in the Stratford–St. Marys area raised a record $440,000 during its Christmas Kettle Campaign, far exceeding its $385,000 goal.

Executive director Rick Honcharsky thanked the many volunteers, community partners, and local residents for their support. The strong response shows how the community came together to help those in need during the holiday season.

Rick Honcharsky, executive director of the Salvation Army in Stratford–St. Marys, said the communities they serve are incredibly generous and gave special thanks to the kettle volunteers. He said many volunteers were deeply committed, with some taking a shift every day. About 220 residents helped run 12 donation kettles in Stratford, St. Marys, and Mitchell from mid-November until Christmas Eve, and they will be thanked at an appreciation event later this month. Honcharsky said he was amazed by how much money was raised in such a short time and how simple kettles generated such strong support.

Nationally, the Christmas Kettle Campaign raised $22.7 million across Canada to help fund Salvation Army initiatives. Money from the local campaigns will largely strengthen the charity’s three food banks, which support between 600 and 700 people a month in Stratford, St. Marys, and Mitchell.

Executive director Eva Hayes said the support from the local community helped keep shelves stocked and allowed the food bank to give out a record 1,219 children’s toys at Christmas, along with books, clothing, and family items. She shared that the kindness shown by the community, even by children donating their own gifts, has been deeply heartwarming and makes their work possible.

Source: Cory Smith, The Beacon Herald