The Salvation Army North Bay Ministries kicked off its annual Christmas campaign in mid-November with a goal this year of $225,000, which is comprised of the Red Kettles and the mail-in donations, but those have been slow to come in this year.
With only 10 days left until Christmas Eve, The Salvation Army has only collected 43 per cent ($96,750) of the much-needed funds.
"I think there's a lot more people in need, there's a lot more individuals and families that are struggling in our community which would take away some of our donor pool," Major Stephanie Watkinson told BayToday. "Lots of new families are coming to the food bank so that means with the rising food costs, and costs are going up next year, we really need every bit of this donation."
There are currently six kettles in North Bay and all include the TipTap machines
"We've had a great response from volunteers, which is great. Our kettles are being manned so we don't have any empty kettles so that's a good news story, but it's just it's a matter of the need."
“These funds are used in North Bay for many of our year-round programs”, says Watkinson. “It is through the wide range of services that we are able to locally provide hope and dignity to the residents of North Bay and surrounding area.”
She's confident local residents will come through.
"It's just for some reason the donations come in in the last 10 days, so we're making an appeal really for people that usually would donate later, to donate earlier.
The goal last year was $200,000 but has increased significantly from last year.
"Just the sheer volume of the food assistance that we give out, is not going to be covered. I'm not sure how we're going to cover all the need. I honestly think there's more people struggling than before."
Financial donations can also be dropped off at their location at 134 McIntyre St. East. Donations can also be made online at www.salvationarmy.ca/northbay.
