The Salvation Army kettle bells began ringing this morning, signaling the start of the Army's annual Christmas appeal. The Army hopes to raise $30,000 this year, $5,000 more than they did last year. In addition, they are asking for 1,500 toys to give to needy children. As is the tradition, the appeal was launched this morning in front of Brodies on Albert Street. 7NEWS was there.
Major Errol Robateau, Salvatioon Army
"What we are asking is that the people understand that the more they give is the more we can do. We are setting a target this year of $30,000 for the kettles and we usually get some more from various appeals that take us through the year but we use the bulk of it at Christmas time and the work continues throughout the year. Last year we gave out over 2,500 and we would like the public to understand that if they give a toy, it will help us. If they can two or three toys it will be fine. And also if you have used toys that maybe their kids have in their room and are not using, there are kids that don't have any and will appreciate those. We prefer new toys but we accept whatever we get. We only ask the public that no guns or no form of guns in toys be sent."
Sandra McKay,
"I was asked by Major Robateau of the Salvation Army to launch the first kettle appeal and it was a honor, honestly it was a honor and a privilege because I know the work of the Salvation Army. I know its very noble, I know they need the support of the community even now more than ever as we are aware they are going through difficult times and they really reach out to the elements of our society that need the most; the old, the elderly, the weak, the youths and the needy."
Major Errol Robateau,
"The message of Christmas is giving and one of the message of the angel was peace and the other was goodwill, and goodwill has in it an essence of giving. That is what's goodwill is and in giving we are helping other people we are sharing and in sharing, those who do not have can enjoy as well as Christmas."
You can look out for the ringing bells in front of Brodies, Romacs, Angelus Press, and Sav-U. They will continue ringing right through to Christmas Eve.
