By David Wiwchar

Alberni church thanks community

Jan 2, 2025 | 9:18 AM

While the local Salvation Army was unable to achieve its fundraising goal this year, they were still able to make Christmas brighter for every child and family that requested help, according to Major Michael Ramsay of the Alberni Valley Ministries.

“One thing that was absolutely amazing this year that I don’t know that I’ve ever seen before, is that absolutely every toy that a child requested for this year we were able to provide through the angel tree, and people coming and buying the toys for the kids in need,” he said. “I’ve never seen every toy be able to be provided through that, so really thank you to everybody who stepped up.”

Ramsay said $182,000 was put into Port Alberni kettles in December as part of the Christmas campaign, 91% of their $200,000 goal.

He said more than 700 people were served at Christmas Dinner, and 600 children and families received gifts and hampers, and more than 200 seniors were given assistance this year, which is more than ever before.

“And I think of that spirit that really runs through this community; it really is the community with a heart,” he said. “Even when times are tough, the community comes together and I just really want to thank the community for that because it’s a real blessing to serve here in the community where everybody pitches in to help people, even at times the greatest need so thank you Port Alberni, you are an amazing community.”

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He also issued a deep thanks to the hundreds of people who volunteered to help put hampers together, staff the kettles outside local businesses, and assist at the Christmas Dinner.

(photo – hundreds of Alberni Valley residents volunteered to help the Salvation Army Christmas Campaign. Photo courtesy Alberni Valley Salvation Army facebook page.)