Across the country, local Salvation Army campaigns are reporting little or no increase in donations as compared to 2007 while in virtually every province, the demand for assistance with toys, practical help and Christmas hampers is seeing a 10-30 per cent increase.

In Calgary, The Salvation Army will serve 300 more families this year than last year which includes over 4000 children.? In Kingston, some feeding programs have seen an increased client base of 60 per cent. The Salvation Army in Stoney Creek has seen a significant increase in the number of families receiving assistance, serving 20% more than in 2007.

“There is no doubt that the current economic climate has had an effect on The Salvation Army’s 2008 Christmas Campaign,” says Graham Moore, Territorial Secretary for Public Relations and Development. “The net result of donations combined with the increased demand is that we are lagging behind last year. Canadians have always supported the work of the Army and we are asking them to consider giving over the next week.”

Donations to the familiar Christmas Kettle Campaign are fairly even when compared to 2007 while online donations have risen very slightly. Donations to Salvation Army Thrift Stores have also declined while sales are up 10 per cent across the country.

The National Christmas Campaign, which raised more than $23 million in 2007, helps the Army provide direct, compassionate, hands-on service to more than 1.5 million people in Canada each year, restoring hope and dignity to the most vulnerable in society.

The Salvation Army’s annual Christmas Campaign has grown into one of Canada’s most significant and recognizable annual charitable events.

Donations to The Salvation Army’s 2008 Christmas Campaign can be made at www.SalvationArmy.ca, by calling 1-800-SAL-ARMY (725-2769), at your local kettle, or via mail to The Salvation Army, 2 Overlea Blvd, Toronto, ON M4H 1P4.

The Salvation Army is an international Christian organization that began its work in Canada in 1882 and has grown to become the largest non-governmental direct provider of social services in the country.

The Salvation Army gives hope and support to vulnerable people today and everyday in 400 communities across Canada and 117 countries around the world.

The Salvation Army offers practical assistance for children and families, often tending to the basic necessities of life, provides shelter for homeless people and rehabilitation for people who have lost control of their lives to an addiction.

When you give to The Salvation Army, you are investing in the future of marginalized and overlooked people in your community.