The bells are ringing as the Salvation Army's annual Christmas Kettle fundraiser is now underway in Cranbrook and Fernie.
Major Rick Robins set up the first Christmas Kettle at Cranbrook's Save-On-Foods on Tuesday, Nov. 26, with Cranbrook Mayor Wayne Price in attendance.
Zak Hunt, Operations Manager at Save-On-Foods made a $50 donation to help kickstart the campaign.
The goal is to raise $60,000 this season, said Major Rick Robins, who is in charge of Salvation Army operations.
"It's a bit of a stretch, but we know the community can come through and make that happen for us," said Major Robins, who noted last year's fundraising tally reached $55,000 on a goal of $50,000.
Major Robins added that there's been a rise in need for support over the last year.
"It's not about a hand out, it's about a hand up and helping people in their point of need and seeing them through to not need that need anymore," he said.
The Kettle Campaign is an iconic Salvation Army fundraiser that occurs during a time of Christmas celebrations while serving as a way to support those who need some extra help.
"I think it helps people get into the Christmas spirit," said Price. "People are still giving; you don't think people have a lot to give anymore, but it's interesting with the Kettle program — people still give, they care and most of this stays in our community."
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