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Home is found in the little moments.

Moving forward, together.
You can see the joy and excitement in their faces. After everything they have been through, this moment means so much.
Jeff and Elizabeth came to the Windsor Centre of Hope last December. Their journey has not been a simple one. They were thoughtful and careful in their decisions. With Elizabeth’s health needs, finding the right space mattered. It was not just about finding a place, but finding a home that truly worked for them.
When they finally found a place that felt right, Jeff shared the news with us right away.
From that day on, you could feel the excitement. It felt like a countdown. Each day brought them closer to something they had been waiting for.
What they were most looking forward to was something simple.
The freedom to eat when they want. To have a snack whenever they feel like it. To live life on their own schedule again.
Moments like this remind us that “home” is often found in the small things many of us take for granted.
Before they left, we shared a light moment together. When asked if they would come back to visit, I smiled and said, “We don’t want to see you back here.”
Because what we really meant was this.
We want them to stay home.
Today, they are moving forward into a new chapter, together.
Their happiness is contagious. It is hard not to smile while writing this.
Moving forward, together.
You can see the joy and excitement in their faces. After everything they have been through, this moment means so much.
Jeff and Elizabeth came to the Windsor Centre of Hope last December. Their journey has not been a simple one. They were thoughtful and careful in their decisions. With Elizabeth’s health needs, finding the right space mattered. It was not just about finding a place, but finding a home that truly worked for them.
When they finally found a place that felt right, Jeff shared the news with us right away.
From that day on, you could feel the excitement. It felt like a countdown. Each day brought them closer to something they had been waiting for.
What they were most looking forward to was something simple.
The freedom to eat when they want. To have a snack whenever they feel like it. To live life on their own schedule again.
Moments like this remind us that “home” is often found in the small things many of us take for granted.
Before they left, we shared a light moment together. When asked if they would come back to visit, I smiled and said, “We don’t want to see you back here.”
Because what we really meant was this.
We want them to stay home.
Today, they are moving forward into a new chapter, together.
Their happiness is contagious. It is hard not to smile while writing this.

The Salvation Army Windsor Centre of Hope Concludes 2025 Christmas Kettle Campaign with Gratitude and Commitment

 

The Salvation Army Windsor Centre of Hope Concludes

2025 Christmas Kettle Campaign with Gratitude and Commitment

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Windsor, ON – The Salvation Army Windsor Centre of Hope is grateful to announce that the 2025 Christmas Kettle Campaign raised a total of $237,590.23, made possible through the generosity of donors, volunteers, staff, and community partners across Windsor-Essex.

The annual campaign reflects the strength of community support and a shared commitment to helping individuals and families facing hardship. Each contribution, whether through donations or volunteer service, plays an important role in sustaining essential programs and services offered through the Windsor Centre of Hope.

Reflecting on the campaign, Jason Linton, Executive Director of The Salvation Army Windsor Centre of Hope, shared:

“Every donation and every volunteer shift represents more than a dollar amount. It represents care, dignity, and hope for people in our community. We are deeply grateful to everyone who made this possible, and we remain committed to serving those in need with respect and compassion.”

 

Stewardship remains a core value of The Salvation Army. The Windsor Centre of Hope is committed to responsibly managing the resources entrusted to us, ensuring they are used effectively, ethically, and with dignity.

At the same time, the outcome of this year’s campaign highlights the ongoing economic pressures many households continue to face. These realities reinforce the importance of the work being done and the continued need for community support.

As the year comes to a close, The Salvation Army Windsor Centre of Hope extends sincere thanks to its generous donors, dedicated volunteers, enthusiastic staff, community partners, and the individuals who rely on its services. Moving forward, the organization remains committed to serving those in need and providing support without prejudice.

For more information about The Salvation Army Windsor Centre of Hope or how to support its programs, please visit www.salvationarmywindsor.ca.

The Salvation Army Windsor Launches the 2025 Christmas Kettle Campaign with a Goal of 250,000 Dollars

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We are pleased to announce that our 2025 Christmas Kettle Campaign officially launched on November 24 with a community goal of raising 250,000 dollars across Windsor and Essex County. This annual campaign is our largest fundraiser of the year and plays a vital role in supporting our food bank, emergency shelter, housing programs, community meals and year round assistance for individuals and families in need.

This year’s campaign began with a meaningful flag raising ceremony at the South Windsor Citadel, accompanied by the uplifting music of our Salvation Army brass band. As we enter the season of giving, we are reminded once again of the generosity and compassion that define our community.

We want to thank all volunteers, donors, store partners and supporters who make this campaign possible. Your time, commitment and kindness allow us to serve thousands of our neighbours who depend on The Salvation Army for food, shelter and hope. We also extend a heartfelt thank you to our community partners for opening their doors to host our kettles at 15 locations across Windsor, Tecumseh and LaSalle.

Every donation placed in a kettle helps us provide nutritious meals, safe shelter and practical support to people facing hardship. Together, we can continue to give hope today.

The campaign runs until December 24. For more information or to make an online donation, please visit salvationarmywindsor.ca.

Thank you for standing with us this Christmas season.

 

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2025 Sally Fest BBQ

COMMUNITY CONNECTION AND COMPASSION SHINE AT 2025 SALLY FEST BBQ

On July 4th, the Salvation Army Windsor Centre of Hope proudly hosted its beloved annual Sally Fest BBQ, once again bringing the community together for an evening of food, fun, and fellowship. The event welcomed over 200 guests and highlighted the power of connection and compassion in the heart of Windsor.

What began years ago as a simple community meal has since grown into a cherished summer tradition — one that celebrates unity, generosity, and the vibrant spirit of Windsor.

“Despite the intense heat, the atmosphere was filled with warmth, joy, and community spirit,” said Jason Linton, Executive Director at The Salvation Army Windsor Centre of Hope. “It was heartening to see so many people gather to enjoy a meal, share stories, laugh, and connect. That’s the heart of Sally Fest.”

Guests enjoyed a classic BBQ meal featuring burgers, fries, fresh fruit, and Tim Bits — generously donated by Tim Hortons Downtown Windsor (Bruce & University). Children had their own play zone, packed with games and activities designed to keep them smiling and engaged throughout the evening.

A key contributor to the event’s success was the ongoing support from The Rotary Club of Windsor (1918). For over a decade, the Club has played an integral role through volunteerism, donations, and steadfast partnership — helping to ensure the success and longevity of this special event.

“We are deeply grateful to the Rotary Club and all our incredible volunteers who make Sally Fest possible each year,” Linton added. “It’s a true testament to what we can achieve when we come together with kindness, purpose, and a shared love for our community.”