7 News Belize

The Kettle Bells Ring Again
posted (November 8, 2018)

Every year, during the first half of November, the Salvation Army signals the beginning of the Christmas season with their launch of their Christmas kettles. 

The bells on those kettles ring to remind the public to remember less fortunate - who will get a Christmas meal or a gift through their small contribution. 

This year's launching held on the stairs of the ScotiaBank's Albert Street Branch.

The regional commander told us that those shillings and dollar coins which you have been dropping in the kettles annually fund many of their community outreach initiatives for over 800 poor families:

Major Joliker Leandre - Regional Commander, Salvation Army
"The Christmas kettle began in 1891, that's almost 200 years, but particular in Belize, the Salvation Army started in Belize in 1915. I'm not sure exactly when we started kettle here, but what I am sure of is that over the years, the public in general, and the business community in particular, has been very supportive to the Salvation Army. In fact, of all the programs we have on our schedule, we would never be able to achieve them without the support from the public. We're very grateful for the support so far. The public has never let us down even in the most difficult times of the year. So, we are sure that this year is no different."

Erwin Arthurs - Manager, Scotia Bank Belize City Branch
"For a few years now, we've been teaming up with them for the special reason that we know that they will make use of the funds and give to the most needy. And that's our goal, to ensure that it reaches the most needy."

Daniel Ortiz
"We noticed that you guys gave them the first infusion of funds in donation, a $2,000 cheque. Tell us about that."

Erwin Arthurs
"That donation is what we normally do. We believe that that's a good start for them to get the ball rolling, when it comes to giving out the Christmas treats to the needy."

Oscar Arnold - Deputy Mayor, Belize City Council
"The City Council has - in the past, previous councils supported the Salvation Army in their efforts, so that they could take care of the most needy, and we just have to support that initiative as well.

Reporter
"Are you guys going to be handing over any donations to the Salvation Army, and what amount?"

Oscar Arnold
"Yes, I have made a recommendation to Mayor Wagner who is out this week. So, as soon as he is back, and looks that over, we'll be making a donation to the Salvation Army. I've also committed to Major Leandre that if they need help manning a few of the kettles, that our councilors will be out there doing that as well. So, he'll be setting that up that schedule and getting back to us."

Reporter
"For this Christmas Season is there a new number of people that you hope to reach?"

Major Joliker Leandre
"Last year, we had 815 families who benefitted from the food parcels. And when we say 815 families, we multiply that by 5 because we cater for a family of 5. So, this year, we're looking at the same number, but if we have more persons, and they come and register, and they need this more, we'll always cater for them."

The goal is to raise $100,000 at the end of the drive. The commander stressed that even if they don't meet that target, they are always very appreciative of the support from the general public.

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