With the 2024 Christmas Season upon us, we need your help!
We are looking for individuals, and groups to volunteer as a Christmas Kettle Bell Ringer! As a volunteer, you have the opportunity to make a lasting impact. For over 135 years, The Salvation Army has provided hope and dignity to people in need through the generosity of our volunteers and donors.
The Salvation Army’s annual Christmas Kettle Campaign – our largest fundraising drive of the year – seeks donations from the public to help assist millions of people living in poverty. The Kettle Campaign donations transform the lives of Canadians and help people find a way out of poverty permanently.
Without the help of volunteers we can’t raise these essential funds. By becoming a Salvation Army Christmas Kettle Volunteer you can help vulnerable Canadians in our community.
Please click the link below to volunteer with us or call our Kettle Coordinator at 306-527-7950
The Salvation Army’s tradition of Christmas Kettles began in 1891 when Captain Joseph McFee of The Salvation Army in San Francisco set up a large pot at the Oakland Ferry Landing. He aimed to provide a free Christmas dinner to the area’s needy and wanted to inspire the community to contribute. This tradition has evolved into a global movement, including here in Canada.
During the holiday season, dedicated Salvation Army volunteers are stationed in busy public spaces, shopping centers, and stores, ringing bells beside the iconic red kettles. Passersby are encouraged to drop spare change or make a donation to help support the less fortunate in their community. The funds collected go towards providing food, shelter, and other essential services to individuals and families facing adversity.
The Salvation Army Christmas Kettles play a vital role in supporting communities across Canada. The funds raised help provide meals for the hungry, shelter for people experiencing homelessness, and assistance for families facing financial hardship. Additionally, the initiative contributes to various community programs, including after-school activities, addiction recovery services, and support for those experiencing crisis situations.
Our annual Kettle Campaign’s success relies heavily on volunteers’ dedication. Canadians from all walks of life come together during the holiday season to give their time and show their support.
In recent years, The Salvation Army has embraced technology to make it even easier for you to contribute. All Regina locations now accept contactless payments, allowing donors to contribute with a simple tap of their card or smartphone. This modernization ensures that the Christmas Kettles remain relevant and accessible in an increasingly cashless society.
The Salvation Army Christmas Kettles in Canada exemplify the true spirit of the holiday season – a time for giving, compassion, and community support. As you encounter those cheerful bell ringers and iconic red kettles, remember that your contribution, no matter how small, can significantly impact the lives of those in need. By supporting this timeless tradition, you are helping The Salvation Army bring joy and hope to communities across the country during the most beautiful time of the year.
Sign up!
Note: Kettle shifts are 2 hours in length.
If you need special accommodations, please book directly with our Volunteer Engagement Coordinator. 306-527-7950
Please include First and Last Name
You will receive an email confirmation after booking, and a text reminder 2 hours prior to your shift.
By signing up to volunteer for the Salvation Army Kettle Campaign, you agree to the following terms and conditions. These terms are designed to ensure a safe, organized, and successful campaign while maintaining the integrity and mission of the Salvation Army.
1. Volunteer Eligibility
- Volunteers must be at least 16 years old. Volunteers under 16 must be accompanied by an adult.
- Volunteers should be in good health and able to stand or sit for the duration of their shifts.
- Volunteers are required to provide accurate contact information for communication purposes.
2. Shift Commitments
- Volunteers are required to arrive on time for their scheduled shift.
- If a volunteer is unable to attend a shift, they must notify The Salvation Army Kettle Coordinator as soon as possible so the spot can be filled.
3. Volunteer Responsibilities
- Volunteers are expected to interact politely and respectfully with the public, embodying the values and mission of the Salvation Army.
- Volunteers will not engage in solicitation or aggressive behavior towards the public. The kettle should remain a donation-based opportunity without pressure on passersby.
- Volunteers are prohibited from accepting tips or gifts for themselves. All donations must go into the kettle.
- Volunteers must ensure the security of the kettle during their shift and should not leave it unattended.
- Volunteers must immediately report any accidents, incidents, or unsafe conditions to the Kettle Coordinator.
4. Appearance and Conduct
- Volunteers are expected to dress appropriately for weather conditions and represent the Salvation Army in a clean, modest, and respectful manner.
- Smoking, vaping, alcohol, and drug use are prohibited during volunteer shifts.
- Volunteers should refrain from using mobile phones or other devices during shifts, except in emergencies or with the permission of the kettle coordinator.
5. Confidentiality and Privacy
- Volunteers may not disclose any confidential information about the Salvation Army, its donors, or other volunteers.
- The Salvation Army will collect and use your personal data for the purpose of managing the volunteer shifts, in accordance with applicable data protection laws.
6. Termination of Service
- The Salvation Army reserves the right to end a volunteer’s participation at any time if the volunteer does not adhere to these terms and conditions or behaves in a way that is inconsistent with the mission and values of the organization.
7. Photography and Media
- By volunteering, you consent to the Salvation Army using any photos or videos taken during your shift for promotional and marketing purposes. If you do not wish to be photographed or recorded, please inform the Kettle Coordinator.
- Volunteers are not authorized to speak to the media on behalf of the Salvation Army without prior consent from the Salvation Army’s Public Relations Department or Haven of Hope Corps Officer.
8. Modifications to Terms
- The Salvation Army reserves the right to update or modify these terms and conditions at any time. Volunteers will be notified of any significant changes.