Even though Barbadians are readily giving to the Salvation Army Appeal, they are not giving the amounts they did in previous years.
So said public relations officer of the Salvation Army Major Denzil Walcott, who added that as a result, they have been staying out longer with the kettles and putting in an extra effort to reach the target of $700 000 set for this year.
Walcott made these comments as he accepted a cheque from the Barbados Light & Power Company (BL&P) at their Employee Christmas breakfast at their Garrison Headquarters yesterday.
The staff also helped to spread some Christmas cheer as they made a donation of household items, food and clothing.
During the month of December the staff filled barrels and boxes with the items.
“We are demonstrating our love and friendship and in some small way we are giving back to the wider community who has served us so well over the years,” said BL&P managing director Mark King.
Walcott said that last year they were able to surpass their target when they collected $640 000, and this year they will be extending the hours of 23 kettles across the island in order to reach this year’s target.
The appeal started November 21, and Walcott said they were expecting that in the coming weeks they would see a jump in donations after individuals received their salaries and bonuses.
The donation from BL&P is an annual initiative to assist the less fortunate in society. In previous years, donations were made to the Young Women’s Christian Association’s breakfast programme and the HIV/AIDS Food Bank. (LK)
