Salvation Army hands out 1,500-plus food hampers

The Salvation Army Headquarters was teeming with activity on Tuesday for the annual Christmas Distribution Package and ceremony.
A total of 1,500 food hampers were handed out to the less fortunate on December 19, many of whom expressed gratitude for the much-needed assistance during the holiday season.

A Salvation Army official hands out hampers to needy persons during the annual Package Distribution at the Army’s Headquarters Tuesday.

Coordinators of the distribution told SEARCHLIGHT that recipients received an increase in items this year- 10 in total and it covers the basic ingredients needed to prepare meals, including flour, sugar, rice, sausages, tea and juice.
The initiative is conducted annually by the Salvation Army through funds received from organizations as well as from the Kettle Appeal.

Salvation Army Captain, Rose Buissereth said an effort can be made to increase the items next year, however, she noted the increasing cost of food items.

“The people were satisfied with the items, that they got a little more this year, and next year we will try to see if we can give more.

“Things that we used to buy cheaper last year are now more expensive this year – the oil, even the butter- it’s more expensive.
In 2022, the Salvation Army handed out a total of 1,700 packages and they are aiming to match that number this year.

“Even though we did the 1,500 to start, more and more people are going to come to get, so we will have to do some more.”

Food hampers will also be distributed in the Chateaubelair and Calder communities leading up to Christmas.

The Salvation Army added a new element to this year’s calendar of charitable events – a Kids Christmas party. The party was done in collaboration with the Ministry of Education and catered to 150 children who received lunch and gifts.

Captain, Rose Buissereth said they intend to keep the Kids Christmas party as a staple event for the future.

The final event will be the annual Christmas lunch for the homeless to be held on December 24.

Captain Buissereth said, based on the number of persons coming to the Salvation Army for the daily feeding program, they expect to see more coming to the lunch.

“More people are coming every day … this lets us know that things are not easy out there.”

Dame Susan Dougan addressed the distribution ceremony, reminding Vincentians to keep the positive aspects of Christmas in mind during the holidays.

“… We are able to forgive our enemies, to have tolerance to those who oppose and annoy us. To give our hearts to our friends, to be charitable in those in need. To your children and the community- to be good examples, to be good leaders…”

I am also hoping that the Christmas season will be one that you enjoy… the leaders of the Salvation Army are spreading good cheer…I salute them for doing this because I know it takes a lot of time and effort, not only at Christmas but throughout the year.