The Salvation Army Expresses Gratitude

February 7, 2024 | 0 Comments

The Salvation Army said they “would like to take this opportunity to express to the generous people of Bermuda its heartfelt appreciation in supporting our Christmas Campaign in 2023.”

A spokesperson said, “Your charitable support of our work is outstanding! We appreciate all who have contributed time and resources in making our Campaign a huge success this year.

“While so many in our community are impacted personally from the rising costs of living, you have given sacrificially to support the most vulnerable across our island home, raising $50,028 in our iconic Kettle Campaign, just shy of our goal of $55,000. In addition, personal and corporate partners have given generously to our Christmas Letter Appeal, generating another $328,550 to be poured back into meeting the growing needs of our community in 2024. Donations made come at a critical time as the organization continues to experience an increase in demand for programs and services.”

“With the general lack of affordability having a toll on the emotional, mental, spiritual, and physical well-being of our communities, we have seen an uptake in new users requiring our services this Christmas,” says Major Cathy Simms, Area Commander. “Through your donations, we are not simply giving food, toys, shelter, etc., we are giving hope to those struggling across the island. We are saying, as a caring community, we are with you in the struggle.”

“Every dollar raised through the Christmas Kettle campaign stays locally and is used to fund vital programs and services across Bermuda. The Salvation Army works to provide the necessities: food, clothing, and shelter, while offering life-changing programs, such as substance abuse recovery, housing supports, job and life-skills training, and education classes that help people find a way out of poverty, permanently.

“The people of Bermuda have been incredibly generous this holiday season,” says Simms. “Every year we ask them to help their community and every year they step up to meet the demand and we cannot thank them enough. We could not do what we do without the generous support of our local community.”

“Along with individual donors, The Salvation Army is thankful for the ongoing generosity of numerous community groups, local businesses and corporate partners who give generously, not only of their resources, but their time to volunteer with our Christmas effort. And we thank those who generously allow Christmas Kettles and donation boxes to be placed at their businesses every year. We appreciate media outlets for their support in communicating the need, with special thanks to the Inter-Island Family for hosting our ‘Fill the Truck’ Campaign again this year.

“Although Christmas is over, The Salvation Army continues to assist those in need 365 days a year. Last year, The Salvation Army in Bermuda helped more than 32,500 people across our island providing 28,000 meals, assisting 3,224 with Christmas food hampers and toys, and over 6,700 people with food, clothing, or practical assistance. And because of your generosity, we will continue to be there, giving hope. Thank you for being such a vital part of meeting the needs of our community at Christmas and throughout the year.”

Matteo Ramabuke age 6, Fill the Salvation Army Truck of Hope Dec 8, 2023

Bacardi serves Christmas Dinner 2023 at the Salvation Army

Christmas Toy Donation 2023 From left to right: Jean Ann Vukota, Ralph Quichocho, Major Cathy Simms, Consul General Karen E. Grissette, Major Darryl Simms, Kelli Edwards