Col. Margaret McLeod and Maj. Corey Vincent pose for a photo alongside a Christmas tree inside the Salvation Army Sanctuary.--News Photo Anna Smith
asmith@medicinehatnews.com
Col. Margaret McLeod of the Salvation Army returned home to Medicine Hat for the holidays and to celebrate the soon-to-be success of the local kettle campaign.
McLeod was born and raised in Medicine Hat and attended Medicine Hat College before moving to Calgary to complete her degree. Having served in the Salvation Army in a variety of roles, she recently was promoted to Chief Secretary for the Salvation Army Canada and Bermuda Territory, effectively making her second in command across both regions.
“I have the privilege now of being able to travel, both in my appointments and in my current appointment, to be able to see the Salvation Army’s work at its finest right across the country. But it is always good to come home,” said McLeod.
She added that she still has family in the region, with both a sibling and her mother still living in Medicine Hat.
Close to home, this has been a remarkable year for the Salvation Army, with the kettle campaign incredibly close to its $130,000 goal.
As of Thursday, said Maj. Corey Vincent, the local collection for the Medicine Hat and Redcliff area was $112,000. He added that he had made a prediction this past Sunday they would be able to meet their goal during church service.
“It’s a lot of money, and it goes to a good cause to support all of our programs here in Medicine Hat,” said Vincent. “We’re excited, our people are excited and our staff were just over the moon excited.”
He noted that this is a better year than years past. With times being difficult as well as several other non-profits and charitable organizations competing for the same funds, Vincent believes their success this year is a testament to the hard work of staff and volunteers.
Funds collected here in Medicine Hat will remain in Medicine Hat, added McLeod, allowing those here to continue providing vital social programs not only during the Holiday Season but all year.
“There is a lot happening in Medicine Hat. Of course, we know that the need here is extensive, especially in our downtown area,” said Vincent. “We have so many people that are struggling financially and depending upon the Salvation Army to show love, hope and compassion.”
He says they serve roughly 100 hot meals every day at the resource centre, as well as movie days, seniors’ coffee meets and a program to ensure that every child has a gift under their Christmas tree.
“We also come alongside families who may not have the financial means to provide a Christmas dinner for themselves. We meet with individuals who are broken and looking for connection. That’s where we step in, step in as the Salvation Army, to give that hope,” said Vincent.
Bell ringers will be continuing their fundraising efforts, collecting both cash and digital donations up until Christmas.
On top of community work, the Salvation Army is a church first and foremost and they invite anyone who may be looking for a place to find connection and spiritual care to join them for Sunday service.
