With Christmas just two weeks away, The Salvation Army has put out an urgent call for volunteers to help with their Kettle Campaign.

So far only 22% of the goal has been reached and roughly 70% of volunteer slots remain unfilled.

"If the campaign is short volunteers, that means Kettles can’t be put out to receive donations - and that puts program support at risk," said The Salvation Army in a press release.

The goal this year is to raise $300,000. Funds raised will cover year-round programs for The Salvation Army, including emergency shelter, food security, toys for children, Christmas assistance, literacy and education programs.

“Kettle donations support our programs that help our neighbours who are struggling,” says Salvation Army area commander, Major Donald Bladen. “Times are tough right now, and your gift of time has a direct impact on those people who come to us for help. Many of them are used to donating at a Kettle, instead of asking for help. We don’t want anyone left behind.”

The Salvation Army is looking for anyone who can spare a few hours for a Kettle shift at a Winnipeg mall, Superstore, Costco, Walmart or Canadian Tire.

"Those Kettle donations make our community programs possible for 2024," says Bladen. "Every single shift is vital, every dollar, and every friendly smile at this time of year makes a difference.”

 Anyone interested in volunteering is encouraged to sign up at winnipegkettles.ca.

The kettle campaign runs until the afternoon of Dec. 24.