The 2013 Salvation Army Kettle Drive has officially started.
On Monday, Major Yvonne Borrows, Major Robin Borrows and Nelson Mayor John Dooley were at the CIBC on Baker Street to kick-off the campaign
But the kettle drive is just one of several programs designed to raise donations this holiday season.
"It's also the kick off of our Angel Tree and we also put out our Christmas hamper applications as well. So, it's a very bust day today," said Yvonne.
The local Salvation Army has two kettles out in the community. One at the CIBC and the other at the Chahko Mika Mall.
"On special occasions we might have a third," explained Yvonne.
The mall not only has a kettle, but it also the location of the Angel Tree program.
"People can pick up an angel off the tree and the angel tag will tell you girl, boy and what age. Then the person goes and buys a gift and puts the tag on the gift."
The gifts are then placed in the big sleigh at the mall and the Salvation Army ensures the present reaches the child.
It's just another way the citizens of Nelson can help said Yvonne.
The local Salvation Army has been in Nelson since 1896, a year before the city was incorporated. While often associated with the holidays, the Sally Ann works all year round.
"Christmas is the time that we do most of our fundraising, but really the funds we raise now, carry us through the year."
She said about 400 food hampers a month go out of the office. The Salvation Army also runs a school lunch program and feeds 40-60 people breakfast each morning.
Dooley was on hand at the kick-off to drop the first donation into the kettle.
"Supporting the Salvation Army is important, year round. However, at Christmas time, there are clearly people in need in our community and the Salvation Army is one of several community groups that steps up to the plate to help out," said Nelson Mayor John Dooley.
"I believe as a community, we have an opportunity and a responsibility to help people who are less fortunate than ourselves," he added.