Trudi Campen and Terry Metcalfe are among the volunteers manning the Salvation Army kettles in the community. All funds collected at the Otter Co-op’s kettle will go to the Gateway of Hope services provided in Langley.

Trudi Campen and Terry Metcalfe are among the volunteers manning the Salvation Army kettles in the community. All funds collected at the Otter Co-op’s kettle will go to the Gateway of Hope services provided in Langley.

Kettle drive appeals for more help

Salvation Army’s services to the less fortunate at the Gateway of Hope are dependent on the generosity of donors

The Salvation Army’s services to the less fortunate at the Gateway of Hope are dependent on the generosity of donors, especially the cash gifts to their Kettle Drive.

There are 15 kettle locations and 100 volunteers in the Langley area, but the Army could use a couple hundred more volunteers to run the kettle campaign here.

“We’re asking people to donate a couple hours,” said Army spokesperson Troy Gaglardi.

“We have a potential of 2,500 two-hour shifts to meet our goal by 2 p.m. on December 24.”

The Gateway of Hope provides 55 beds, 100 meals a day and family services such as their medical room staffed by volunteer doctors.

“Our fundraising is about 10 per cent behind so far and we really do need help,” said Gaglardi.

“What we raise by Dec. 24 dictates what we can do, it affects the services we provide for people.”

Persons wishing to help should email: kettles@gatewayofhope.ca

You can also donate $5 by texting to 45678 and sending the message of “hope 1002”.

Aldergrove Star