Saturday is Walmart Fill The Kettle Day right across Canada in support of The Salvation Army.
Lieutenant Colonel John Murray is the Army’s Communications Secretary for Canada and explains just what that means for donations made at the kettles Saturday.
“Walmart Canada will match donations (made across the country) up to $100,000,” says Lt-Colonel Murray, “Which is an absolutely extraordinary and generous gift.”
He tells us that all donations are greatly appreciated, as The Salvation Army is feeling the COVID-19 financial crunch just like everyone else.
“Right now we’re about $3,000,000 behind (nationally) the same time last year. We’re seeing not as many people out in places like malls coupled with the fact that many different provinces and cities are in various stages of lockdown across the country (due to COVID-19).”
Although most people donate cash to the Red Kettles, there is a new way to give this year.
Lt-Colonel Murray says that The Salvation Army has partnered with Canadian start-up Tip Tap, and Rogers, to allow you to donate at the kettle locations by simply tapping your card.
“We have 1,500 locations across Canada that are equipped with a Tip Tap unit. It’s simply making a $5 donation with your debit card, Visa or MasterCard. It takes about eight seconds to do, and it’s another way to invest in the lives of people right in your community.”
All money donated Saturday and every other day throughout the physical Kettles, via Tip Tap or through a virtual kettle stays right in your community.
The Salvation Army’s local goal for their 2020 Kettle Campaign was set at $200,000.
