The international Christian church that has been addressing the basic needs of humanity since its inception in the United Kingdom in 1865 — The Salvation Army — is once again back in Cochrane with its ever-popular Christmas Kettle Campaign.
The bells will be jingling, seeking generosity and spreading Christmas joy, from Nov. 24-Dec. 24; this year’s kettles will be set up at two community locales — Safeway and No Frills, from Tuesday-Saturday, 11 a.m.-8 p.m.
Local kettle organizer, Lisa Wagantall, is back for her second year as local liaison and is thrilled at the outpouring of support from all three local high schools — Bow Valley High, Cochrane High and St. Timothy High.
“I’m really impressed by how much all three high schools are behind us this year,” said Wagantall, adding that she has about 60 high school students signed up for volunteer slots (an average of three hours per shift) to man kettles, collect donations and wish the Cochrane community holiday cheer.
“I’m always looking for more volunteers, though,” laughed Wagantall. To volunteer, contact her at 403-797-4681.
Last year, the Calgary and area division raised more than $1 million and is hoping to reach the same amount this year. Cochrane’s 2011 contribution reached more than $16,000.
“While we don’t have an office in Cochrane, anybody from the community is welcome to use all of our services,” reminded spokesperson, Pam Goodyear.
Last year, the Kettle Campaign assisted more than 7,100 Calgary and area children and t
