When clock is ticking down to 4 p.m. on Christmas Eve when this year's annual Salvation Army kettle campaign comes to an end.
In Burnaby, both the Metrotown and Salvation Army citadels will have volunteers manning kettles all throughout the city.
While there are no updated numbers for Burnaby as of Friday afternoon, the trend throughout the regioni has been very positive.
According to Capt. Dave Macpherson, longtime New Westminster Citadel head who's off to work in the Salvation Army's Burnaby divisional headquarters, this year's numbers in neighbouring New Westminster and the Tri-Cities are positive, but there's still time for a last-second push.
"We raised $358,000 last year and we're on target for $365,000 for this year," said Macpherson of that region's numbers. "Our goal is $400,000, so we're a little behind, but with a little push, maybe we can get there."
"Volunteers have stepped up and they'll be there until 4 p.m. Christmas Eve," said Macpherson.
Overall, the Salvation Army's Christmas Kettle campaign has some big targets, both provincially and nationally.
According to Maj. Ken Ritson, divisional secretary for public relations and development in British Columbia, British Columbia had raised $2.8 million by Dec. 21, with a provincial goal of $4 million and a national goal of $21 million.
"The dollars raised through this effort are not only used at Christmas, but throughout the year, as the funds provide resources for our overall operation for the year ahead. We want to encourage supporters to please donate when they see a kettle and help," Ritson said in a press release.
People are encouraged to donate at kettles, by visiting www.FilltheKettle.com or text HOPE1000 to 45678 to make a $5 donation. For more info, go to www.salvationarmy.ca.
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