Walmart to match in-store donations across Canada on December 20 up to $100,000

TORONTO, Dec. 19, 2012 /CNW/ - With donations to The Salvation Army's Christmas Kettle Campaign lagging, the organization is thrilled to announce that its partnership with Walmart Canada will continue. Walmart Fill the Kettle Day will be held on Thursday, December 20, and once again, Walmart Canada will match donations made by individuals to Salvation Army Christmas kettles located in its stores nationwide up to a maximum of $100,000.

Walmart Canada has become a strong supporter of The Salvation Army over the past number of years. Since 2007, Walmart Canada and its customers have donated more than $10 million to The Salvation Army, helping to provide food, shelter and clothing for families that live below or at the poverty line.

"We are proud to partner with The Salvation Army, one of Canada's largest providers of social assistance, and host our third Walmart Fill the Kettle Day," said John Lawrence, Director of Corporate Social Responsibility for Walmart Canada. "Like Walmart, The Salvation Army is committed to supporting Canadian families in need. We are confident our customers will help them achieve their important fundraising goals."

"The Salvation Army is indebted to Walmart Canada for their generosity, their financial support and for their desire to see people be treated with dignity and respect," said Graham Moore, Territorial Secretary for Public Relations and Development for The Salvation Army in Canada. "This year our campaign focuses on the small dreams that many have. Walmart Fill the Kettle Day helps people realize those dreams of a decent meal, new clothes and a chance at a better life. Every gift makes a difference and we are grateful to all that continue to support our work."

The 2012 Christmas Campaign helps The Salvation Army provide direct, compassionate, hands-on service to more than 1.8 million people in Canada each year, restoring hope and dignity to the most vulnerable in society. The Salvation Army's annual Christmas Campaign has grown into one of Canada's most significant and recognizable annual charitable events. The Salvation Army relies on the support of numerous corporate partners, including and many individual retailers, who allow Christmas kettles to be placed at their stores each year.

The Salvation Army's Christmas kettles can be seen in nearly 2,000 locations across Canada and remain a very effective way to donate and support the ongoing work of the organization. Beyond donating to The Salvation Army's physical Christmas Kettles, donations to the 2012 Christmas Campaign can be made at www.SalvationArmy.ca, by calling 1-800-SAL-ARMY (725-2769) or via mail to The Salvation Army, 2 Overlea Blvd, Toronto, ON M4H 1P4.

Donors can also support the 2012 Christmas Campaign by texting HOPE to 45678 from most mobile carriers in Canada.  A $5 donation will be added to your monthly mobile bill.

About The Salvation Army:
The Salvation Army is an international Christian organization that began its work in Canada in 1882 and has grown to become the largest non-governmental direct provider of social services in the country. The Salvation Army gives hope and support to vulnerable people today and everyday in 400 communities across Canada and more than 120 countries around the world. The Salvation Army offers practical assistance for children and families, often tending to the basic necessities of life, providing shelter for homeless people and rehabilitation for people who have lost control of their lives to an addiction. When you give to The Salvation Army, you are investing in the future of marginalized and overlooked people in your community.

News releases, articles and updated information can be found at www.SalvationArmy.ca

SOURCE THE SALVATION ARMY