There are just a few days remaining in the Nelson Salvation Army’s annual Christmas Cheer Campaign and Major Robin Borrows said so far only 50 per cent of the targeted cash donations have been raised.
“There are some very generous people in this community who are very supportive of what we do and we thank them for all they do to help us meet our donation objective,” said Borrows.
Funds raised during this season are needed to provide Christmas hampers to about 350 local families and individuals. In addition to this, the Salvation Army provides help to people throughout the year.
“Currently, we are serving about 900 free hot breakfasts and another 460 food bank hampers and school lunches that feed around 1,100 individual men, women and children each month. In addition we are also providing free laundry and shower facilities. These numbers are staggering in a community of this size. This represents 10 per cent of Nelson’s population,” said Borrows.
The Salvation Army handles more than just food concerns.
“There is also the spiritual and emotional care that is given to people in some very difficult situations in life. Every day people need someone who will listen to their story and really care about where they are at in life. I have seen our staff and volunteers weep with others as some terrible situations in people’s lives are revealed. It is truly heart-wrenching to hear some of the stories people share with us.
“Sometimes we can provide practical help other times it’s just enough to know someone really cares and listens. This time of year those problems become even more evident as families struggle to not just provide the little extras for Christmas but the very daily necessities of life”.
All funds raised by the Salvation Army stay in this community to help local people.
“Likewise, what we don’t raise means an adjustment to the services we can provide.”
You can help by making a tax deductible donation either at 601 Vernon Street, at one of the familiar Christmas Kettles or by mail.
“Traditionally we are quiet about what we do. It’s just the way we are and people are very surprised when they hear how much help the Salvation Army provides in the community. We have been in Nelson since 1896 helping others and giving hope for 118 years. This time of year we need the community’s help to help those in need.”