Despite a year of financial strains, Victoria residents made the Salvation Army’s 2020 Christmas wish come true.
Just a few days before Christmas, the charity put out a nationwide plea saying it was still only halfway to its Christmas Kettle Campaign goal. But, with a $100,000 increase over 2019, Victoria residents managed to far surpass their usual goal and raised more than $350,000 total.
The Salvation Army said it’s seen a huge increase in demand for its services since the pandemic hit, with more people experiencing poverty than in an average year. The money Victoria residents raised will go directly to feeding, clothing and sheltering local people and families in need.
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“There was an incredible outpouring of support from people in this community,” said Patricia Mamic, spokesperson for the Salvation Army.
The charity also made donating more accessible in 2020. In response to COVID-19 safety measures, it launched “touchless giving technology,” allowing for people to pay by card.
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Across B.C., the charity raised $5.3 million.
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