Salvation Army Western Division Looking To Raise $7 Million
By: , November 17, 2015The Key Point:
Photo: Glenis A. Rose
Salvation Army's Divisional Commander, Major Edward Lyons (right), receives a cheque for $500,000 from Scotia Bank's District Vice President, Steve Distant. Occasion was the launch of the Salvation Army Western Jamaica Division’s Christmas Kettle Appeal on November 13, at the Scotia Bank Financial Centre in Montego Bay.The Facts
- The money will provide food and other necessities for thousands of less fortunate Jamaicans in the parishes of Trelawny, Hanover, Westmoreland, and St. Elizabeth.
- Divisional Commander at The Salvation Army, Major Edward Lyons, who received a $500,000 cheque from Scotiabank at the launch, said he is optimistic that the target will be reached.
The Full Story
The Salvation Army’s Western Jamaica Division is looking to raise $7 million through its Christmas Kettle Appeal launched on Friday (November 13) at Scotiabank’s Financial Centre in Montego Bay.
The money will provide food and other necessities for thousands of less fortunate Jamaicans in the parishes of Trelawny, Hanover, Westmoreland, and St. Elizabeth.
Divisional Commander at The Salvation Army, Major Edward Lyons, who received a $500,000 cheque from Scotiabank at the launch, said he is optimistic that the target will be reached.
He expressed gratitude to Scotiabank, which has been a key partner in the fundraising efforts over the year.
“Last year, Scotiabank gave us a great start with a presentation of $500,000. Again, we are happy that this can be repeated and we praise God (for this). Through that effort, we were able to provide over 1,000 quality food parcels along with 500 toiletry kits. We were able, in western Jamaica, to reach more than 2,500 families and touch the lives of over 30,000 needy individuals. Currently, we are well on our way in ensuring that the Christmas will be merry for as many needy Jamaicans as possible. Thanks to Scotiabank,” Major Lyons said.
District Vice President, Scotiabank, Steve Distant, who made the presentation, said the Bank has been associated with The Salvation Army for over 15 years.
He noted that Scotiabank volunteers assist in wrapping gifts and making preparations for Christmas and other occasions.
“We have a grocery drive throughout our branches and put together what has been collected and send that over to The Salvation Army periodically,” he noted further.
In his remarks, Custos of St. James, Hon. Ewen Corrodus, urged all Jamaicans to support the Salvation Army’s Christmas Kettle project so that the lives of more of Jamaica’s poor can be touched this season.
“Every time you contribute to this Christmas Kettle drive, you are supporting a worthy cause. Every day they feed the poor, educate the ignorant, support the widows and orphans and minister to the sick, the helpless and the hopeless. Won’t you join them with a willing heart and a generous hand?” Custos Corrodus appealed.