A charity supporting Bermuda’s needy amassed hundreds of thousands of dollars in donations over Christmas at a time of mounting costs.

The Salvation Army applauded “the generous people of Bermuda” after its Kettle Campaign took in $50,028 — while big-hearted donors gave a further $328,550 in response to the charity’s Christmas-letter appeal.

The donations came at “a critical time”, as the organisation tackles rising demand for its programmes and services.

Major Cathy Simms, the area commander, said its Christmas assistance to the community brought emotional comfort as well as met material needs.

“With the general lack of affordability having a toll on the emotional, mental, spiritual and physical wellbeing of our communities, we have seen an uptake in new users requiring our services this Christmas,” she said.

“Through your donations, we are not simply giving food, toys and shelter — we are giving hope to those struggling across the island.

“We are saying, as a caring community, we are with you in the struggle.”

The Salvation Army’s emblematic Kettle Campaign dates back to the 19th century.

The community came close to the campaign’s 2023 target of $55,000, with all monies used locally to cover necessities such as food, clothing and shelter.

The charity offers programmes, such as substance abuse recovery, housing support, job and life-skills training, and educational classes that have help many find a permanent way out of poverty.

Ms Simms said: “The people of Bermuda have been incredibly generous this holiday season.

“Every year we ask them to help their community — and every year they step up to meet the demand. We cannot thank them enough.

“We could not do what we do without the generous support of our local community.”

The charity thanked community groups, businesses and corporate partners who gave volunteers as well as donations.

Many allow Christmas Kettles and donation boxes to be placed at their businesses each year.

Inter-Island Communications, on Union Street, was also thanked for hosting the Salvation Army’s “fill the truck” campaign.

The charity said that last year it helped “more than 32,500 people across our island, providing 28,000 meals, assisting 3,224 with Christmas food hampers and toys, and over 6,700 people with food, clothing or practical assistance”.