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The Salvation Army’s 30th Annual Community Christmas Dinner Brings Holiday Cheer to Over 600 People

The Salvation Army Windsor Centre of Hope is thrilled to celebrate the success of its 30th annual Community Christmas Dinner, held on December 11. For over three decades, this cherished event has brought holiday joy to the Windsor community and provided a memorable evening for 600 guests.

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The Salvation Army’s annual Christmas Campaign — including the beloved Christmas Kettles — underscores the importance of community donations in supporting vulnerable individuals during the holiday season and beyond. These generous contributions help make events like the Community Christmas Dinner possible, where volunteers from local businesses, churches, and the wider community came together to serve a festive meal of turkey with all the trimmings and apple pie.

 

Jason Linton, Executive Director, shared his thoughts on the milestone occasion – “We had a wonderful turnout for our 30th year serving the Windsor community. 2024 has been a challenging year for many, and this dinner gave everyone the chance to set those challenges aside for an evening to enjoy good food, music, and company as we head into Christmas. Donations through our Christmas Campaign and Kettles are crucial in helping us continue this important work.”

 

The event, open to all, offered guests festive decorations, live entertainment, and the opportunity to connect with neighbors and friends in a warm, welcoming atmosphere. The South Windsor Citadel Brass Band filled the room with joyous melodies, while local musician Abbey Neves provided heartwarming dinner entertainment. Adding to the festive spirit, Santa Claus and his elves surprised attendees by distributing backpacks filled with toys, winter gear, and coloring books.

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Shannon Barnwell, Community Engagement Specialist, reflected on the added joy of the event, saying, “Santa’s visit made our 30th year even more magical. This wouldn’t have been possible without our incredible supporters who organized donations and brought Santa to life for the evening.”

 

The Salvation Army Windsor Centre of Hope extends heartfelt gratitude to all the guests, sponsors, volunteers, and staff who made this event a success. A special thanks to Platinum Sponsor Windsor and Essex County Tim Hortons Restaurant Owners for their unwavering support during the holiday season and throughout the year. This event highlights the power of innovative community partnerships, which are vital to meeting the needs of those in our community and ensuring the success of initiatives like this.

 

As the Christmas Campaign continues, The Salvation Army Windsor Centre of Hope remains committed to serving those in need. One in four parents report eating less so their children can have enough to eat, and the Centre supports over 600 families each month with essential services. Donations are vital to ensuring this mission can carry on. To contribute and help make a difference, please visit www.salvationarmywindsor.ca or look for a Christmas Kettle near you.

Maria Poh

Pathway of Hope Graduate: Maria

When Maria arrived in Canada as a newcomer, she needed support navigating her new life in an unfamiliar city. Over the past year, we worked together on a few key areas: employment, housing, and community involvement.

There were challenges along the way, but Maria’s determination and hard work helped her overcome every obstacle. She secured stable employment, found a home, and became actively involved in her community. It’s been amazing to watch her grow, gain confidence, and truly become a part of the Windsor community.

Maria, it’s been an honor to support you on your journey. You’ve shown what’s possible with hope, persistence, and the right support. Congratulations on achieving your goals! ❤

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Pathway of Hope Graduate: Mulky

Mulky came to Canada as a single mom with three young kids, facing the challenges of starting fresh in a new country. She joined the Pathway of Hope program looking for support to navigate everything from education to financial stability, transportation, and health.
 
Together, we worked to help Mulky move toward self-sufficiency. Despite the challenges, Mulky has made incredible progress. She’s achieved all of her goals and has overcome many obstacles along the way, all while caring for her children. Watching her flourish has been a true pleasure.
 
Mulky, your strength and resilience are inspiring. It’s been amazing to see you grow, and we’re so proud of everything you’ve accomplished. Congratulations on reaching your goals! ❤
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The Salvation Army in Windsor Launches Iconic Christmas Kettle Campaign with $240,000 Goal

The Salvation Army is excited to kick off its 2024 Christmas Kettle Campaign in Windsor with a Proclamation and Flag Raising Ceremony on Friday, November 15, at 10:00 AM at Charles Clark Square. With a goal of raising $240,000, the campaign will support local programs and services that help individuals and families facing food insecurity and homelessness. This event marks the official start of the campaign, with special guests including Mayor Drew Dilkens, city councillors, Salvation Army staff, and other community members joining to show their support.
“The Salvation Army has been dedicated to supporting Windsor families and individuals for 138 years, and every day, we see people making impossible choices between essentials like food, shelter, and medical care,” said Captain Nyree Bond, Community Ministries Officer, The Salvation Army Windsor. “Every donation to a Christmas kettle brings warmth, safety, and compassionate support to someone in need. Together, Windsor can make a lasting impact and ensure that no one is left behind this Christmas season.”
The Salvation Army’s Christmas Kettle Campaign, running from November 15 to December 24 at various locations throughout the greater Windsor region, is the organization’s largest annual public fundraiser. Funds raised stay within the community, directly supporting essential services such as food security programs, emergency shelters, and empowerment initiatives year-round. Windsor residents are encouraged to support the campaign in a variety of ways:
• Donate at a local kettle
• Volunteer as a bell ringer to help inspire community giving
• Host a kettle at your local business to partner with us for the season
The campaign would not be possible without the dedication of the hundreds of volunteers who generously donate their time each year. Individuals, families, and businesses interested in volunteering can call the kettle hotline at 519-971-5878 or visit www.WindsorChristmasKettles.ca.

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