Salvation Army short of volunteer ‘bell-ringers’ for this year’s Christmas Kettle campaign

It is one of the most visible reminders of the holiday season: volunteers ringing bells and collecting money for the Salvation Army’s Christmas Kettle campaign.

But the Sally Ann, as the charitable organization is sometimes called, says a shortage of volunteers means it may not meet its $4.2 million fundraising target this year.

The need is greater than ever, says Captain Gina Haggett, the divisional commander for the Salvation Army British Columbia.

“So far the Salvation Army here in British Columbia is only at about 31 per cent of their provincial goal, and we are hoping that volunteers will turn out,” Haggett said.

“We really can’t put our kettles out without volunteers standing and thanking those around the province for their generous donations.”

The Salvation Army Christmas Kettle Campaign has been running for more than 100 years across Canada, with the first one being set up in Newfoundland in 1906.

There are more than 2,000 kettle locations across Canada, according to the Salvation Army website. The locations are typically stationed in malls and outside retail locations.

The campaign runs until Dec. 23. Anyone wishing to volunteer can register on the charity’s website.