Londoners once again proved how generous they can be.
Salvation Army officials announced the non-profit agency's annual Christmas Kettle Campaign surpassed its goal by nearly $75,000.
A total of $624,701 was brought in by Christmas Eve. The Salvation Army had set a $550,000 fundraising target heading into the campaign that kicked off on November 21.
"Reaching our goal means we can continue to provide life-changing programs for the most vulnerable in London,” Salvation Army spokesperson Shannon Wise said in a statement. “The Salvation Army is deeply grateful for the outpour of support from its donors, volunteers and community partners to be able to meet the need in our community.”
One week before the end of the fundraising campaign, the Salvation Army issued an urgent plea for donations, noting it was $168,000 short of its goal.
"Money raised through the kettle campaign allows the Salvation Army to continue giving people in our community the tools they need to rebuild dignity and renew hope–whether that’s through the Christmas Hamper Program, emergency disaster relief, shelter or life-skills development,” said Wise.
This year, the Salvation Army handed out food hampers for 4,431 households and toys for over 6,758 local children.
