Although the money raised from the Salvation Army Richmond kettle drive was a hair shy of last year's efforts, it was an important part of helping B.C. shatter its regional goal of $2.3 million dollars - the amount collected in 2010.
About $3.3 million was raised province-wide, with Richmond contributing approximately $170,000 of that - the final total will still take a few more days to determine after cheques are cleared and foreign currency converted, said Salvation Army British Columbia Division spokesperson Lauren Chan.
She attributed the huge increase in donations to the organization doing a better job appealing to people, exceptional generosity shown by the public and corporate sponsors, and the availability of digital and online giving.
"(Technology) adds more accessibility and ease and convenience," said Chan.
Last year, the Salvation Army launched their Internet campaign where people were able to set up their own virtual kettles to elicit donations, or also donate to their online community kettles to ensure money stayed in their respective areas.
New for this year, in select locations, debit machines were introduced so those who didn't carry cash could use their bank cards to drop in a few dollars.
The boost in fundraising was a relief as there was a 20 per cent increase of needy individuals and families.
"The economy is still recovering and there were a lot (more people participating in) the hamper drive. There were also a lot of people becoming more aware (of us) and asking for help," said Chan.
The kettle drive success came despite a slight drop of volunteers for reasons unknown, she said.
Major Brad Smith, pastor at the Richmond chapter said because of that change, they had a few less kettles out in the com-munity this year.
"We're about $6,000 down from last year," said Smith. "Lately it's been stabilizing one year to the next, it could be the economy we're in."
He noticed more people reaching out for help on a local level as well.
"I've been dealing with a couple of families that really had a need, and we made sure they had enough food for a Christmas dinner. They normally wouldn't call otherwise."
While cash contributions may have been down, there were plentiful clothing donations that were handed out to families over the two nights of the annual Christmas community supper on Dec. 15 and 16.
Even Santa made an appearance to hand out toys to the kids that were part of the 300 guests who showed up over the two nights for turkey with all the trimmings.
The kettles have been put away until next November, but people can still give to the Salvation Army all year long. Funds help pay for expenses like the community supper and other services and initiatives. For more information, call the office at 604-277-2424 or drop by at 8280 Gilbert Rd.
"(This holiday season) was good. There were more people that needed help, but people were really great donating as well. We seem to always manage with what we get," said Smith.
