The Salvation Army has launched its annual Christmas Kettle campaign in Medicine Hat, asking residents to support local programs that assist people dealing with food insecurity, isolation and the rising cost of household necessities.
The campaign will continue until Christmas Eve, with donation kettles set up at nine locations across the city. Money raised locally will be directed to Salvation Army services in Medicine Hat, including a weekday meal program and Christmas assistance for families who may be struggling to afford gifts and other seasonal expenses.
“Every dollar collected here in Medicine Hat stays in Medicine Hat.”
Support extends beyond the holiday season
The organization’s weekday meal service is offered at 5 p.m., Monday to Friday, at its resource centre in the lower level of Fifth Avenue Memorial United Church. The program is intended to provide more than a meal, according to Vincent, who said it also gives people an opportunity to socialize and find a sense of connection.
That broader role is important for people experiencing financial hardship or loneliness, as the meal service creates a regular point of contact in addition to providing hot food. Vincent described the program as a place where people can find fellowship and a welcoming interaction, reflecting the organization’s focus on both material assistance and community support.
Ways residents can contribute
For the first time in the campaign’s current offering, all Medicine Hat kettle sites will provide tap payment. Donors can use a bank card to contribute preset amounts of $5, $10 or $20, adding a cashless option for residents who do not have change available or prefer electronic payments.
| Campaign detail | Information |
|---|---|
| End date | Christmas Eve |
| Kettle locations | Nine across Medicine Hat |
| Tap donations | $5, $10 or $20 |
| Local meal service | Weekdays at 5 p.m. |
The Salvation Army is also collecting toys through Christmas trees placed at locations around the city, including Medicine Hat Mall. Those donations are intended to help families provide a Christmas for their children while managing pressures such as grocery bills, heating costs and other essential expenses.
Assistance available through the organization
Residents seeking support can contact the Salvation Army at 403-527-2474 or visit its office at 164 Stratton Way S.E. The office is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The organization is encouraging residents to contribute throughout the holiday period, while emphasizing that funds collected in the city remain in the local community.
- Cash and tap donations can be made at the campaign’s nine Medicine Hat kettle locations.
- Toy donations are accepted through Christmas trees at participating sites, including Medicine Hat Mall.
- People seeking assistance can call 403-527-2474 or visit the Stratton Way office during regular hours.
Vincent said the organization appreciates the support of Medicine Hat and surrounding-area residents. With the campaign running through Christmas Eve, contributions will help sustain services aimed at people facing financial strain during the holiday season and beyond.
