by Sylene Argent, Local Journalism Initiative
Live carols, free hot dogs and hot chocolate, a visit with Santa, and a chance to usher in the Essex Salvation Army’s Christmas Kettle Campaign were all part of the festivities offered during the Tree Lighting event on Friday evening.
The festivities took place on the front lawn of the Essex Municipal Building, as area residents gathered around the tree to flip the switch. Guys Who Like to Sing and DJ Tony enhanced the holiday ambiance with Christmas music, helping to officially kick-off the holiday season in Essex with the first lighting of the tree this season.
In addition, families were able to donate new, unwrapped toys and non-perishable food items for its Christmas Toy and Hamper program.
This annual event not only helps to get families excited for the holiday season, it allows the Essex Salvation Army a chance to kick-off its critical Christmas Kettle and Letter Campaigns. They are fundraisers held during the holiday season that help support its clients throughout the year.
Essex Salvation Army’s Major Jim Hann noted that between the Christmas Kettle Campaign and the Letter Campaign, the Essex Salvation Army is looking to raise $100,000 this year.
The funds raised allow the Salvation Army to provide a myriad of services and programs to those in need throughout the year, including stocking the shelves at its food bank, sending youths to summer camp, and providing a meal to participants in the weekly Salvation Army Connections program. Individuals are welcome to participate in the free SA Connections event on Tuesdays at noon, which offers a meal, social time, and an activity or information session.
The Essex community is always generous in its support of the Essex Salvation Army, Hann noted. He is always appreciative of that support.
The Essex Salvation Army is in need of volunteers to help man the Christmas Kettles over the next several weeks at Essex Foodland, Josh’s No Frills, Sanford and Son Supermarket in Harrow, and at the Sobeys in Amherstburg.
For those able to volunteer, call the Essex Salvation Army at (519) 776-4628 during regular business hours to secure a time slot.
Those wanting to donate will also be able to find countertop kettles at several local businesses, including at FATE, Home Hardware, Stepping Out, and Schinkels.
Due to the mail strike, those who would like to donate by cheque can place them in the countertop Christmas Kettles, Hann noted. They will mail out receipts when they can.