REGINA — The familiar sound of coins hitting red kettles is echoing through shopping centres and stores across Regina as the Salvation Army’s Christmas Kettle Campaign continues its most important work of the year. Volunteers stand near store entrances, offering smiles, gratitude and a reminder that small acts of generosity still change lives.
The kettle campaign has deep roots, stretching back more than a century to when the Salvation Army first raised holiday funds to feed people in need. In Regina, that mission remains urgent. Rising housing costs, food insecurity and homelessness continue to strain families, seniors and individuals living on the edge. For many, winter brings impossible choices between heat, food and shelter.
Money raised through the kettles stays local. It helps fund meals, emergency assistance, shelter supports, family services and outreach programs that operate year-round. These are not one-time handouts. They are lifelines that help people stabilize, rebuild and move forward.
The campaign also depends on volunteers. Every shift filled means another chance to keep a kettle staffed and visible. Organizers say even an hour makes a difference, especially during peak shopping periods when donations can surge.
Lieutenant Tim Fraser with the Salvation Army says the need this year is significant. Demand for food programs and emergency support continues to climb, while many households are facing their own financial pressures. That reality makes every donation, large or small, matter even more.
For donors, the ask is simple. Give what you can. For volunteers, the invitation is open. Stand beside a kettle, ring the bell and become part of a tradition built on compassion.
Anyone interested in volunteering can sign up through the Salvation Army’s Christmas Kettle volunteer page. For those who may not have time to ring a bell but still want to help, donations can be made online through the Salvation Army’s donation portal.
Watch our quick highlight video to hear from local kettle workers and learn how your support is helping neighbours get through the winter.
