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Released 30 November 2006
Poverty, hunger and homelessness know no season. However, these problems are brought into sharp focus at Christmas. Most Winnipeggers take shelter, food, warm clothing and children’s toys for granted at this time of year. But, for too many others these blessings are only dreams and not part of everyday reality. The Salvation Army Hope in the City Christmas Campaign will bring real hope and comfort to these people.
More than two hundred and fifty supporters gathered for breakfast at the CanadInn at Polo Park on November 23rd to officially launch this year’s Hope in the City Christmas Campaign.
Premier Gary Doer told the crowd of his personal respect and support for the compassion and results achieved by The Salvation Army. He said, “They practice their faith twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week – that’s why they have so much respect in Manitoba.” The Premier concluded his remarks by making the first donation to the Christmas Kettle Campaign.
Mr. Robert Filuk, President of the Thomas Sill Foundation told of the longstanding relationship between the foundation and The Salvation Army’s Christmas Campaign. The Salvation Army was the recipient of one of the very first gifts ever offered by the foundation and they have contributed every year since. Their donation to the 2006 Hope in the City Christmas Campaign was five thousand dollars.
“The Salvation Army Christmas Kettle is a familiar symbol worldwide,” said Major Al Hoeft, Divisional Secretary for Public Relations and Development, Manitoba & Northwest Ontario Division. “While the Kettle campaign is our core campaign at this time of year it is not our only activity. We have the Santa Shuffle, Toy Mountain, a Community Carol Festival and other services designed to bring real Hope in the City this Christmas.”
“We are deeply grateful for our corporate and community partners and the countless volunteers whose generous hearts working through The Army’s willing hands bring Christmas joy and hope to those who need it most,” he added.