Ottawa’s Salvation Army donates 50 Christmas trees to families in need

For some families in the nation's capital a Christmas tree is a luxury they just cannot afford, and that's where the Salvation Army is stepping in.

Through its Red Kettle Campaign, the charity has been able to gift 50 artificial Christmas trees to local families during a year unlike any other.

The tree initiative has come in partnership with the Bethany Hope Centre, a community that helps young families, and the Ottawa Citadel Church who also assists the Salvation Army with their Christmas food hampers program.

One of the tree recipients with the Bethany Hope Centre says, “We were originally going to skip Christmas because we couldn't afford it, but with this tree and the decorations it makes a big difference. It's the little things that will help make this Christmas special.”

Bethany Hope Centre Salvation Army Christmas tree recipient by Salvation Army

A mom with four kids who go to the Ottawa Citadel Church expressed their gratitude for receiving a Christmas tree they will be able to use for years to come.

“My kids had been asking for a tree, and I had to say 'please stop asking we can't afford it. Next year will be better. Then we received a phone call from The Ottawa Citadel asking if we wanted a Christmas tree and it was a gift from God! We weren't sure if we wanted to put it up because there was nothing to put underneath the tree. But then another miracle happened, and another family provided gifts for my children! Quite a blessing to see God working in little ways.”

Ottawa Citadel Church Christmas tree recipient by Salvation Army

The Ottawa Salvation Army is still accepting donations through their website to help those in need all year round. Residents can also physically donate at one of the Red Christmas Kettle's location in shopping centres and stores around the city through December 24. Donations made in person at a kettle can be cash, a cheque, debit or credit with contactless payment.

This year’s campaign goal is set at $550,000 to meet the increasing needs of individuals and families in our community.