Dear Sir,

The Salvation Army would like to thank the Bermuda community for the overwhelming support given to the 2020 Christmas Programme. The programmes include the Christmas Letter Appeal, the Christmas Hamper Programme, the Secret Santa Toy Programme; the multiple feeding programmes and the well-known Christmas Kettle Programme.

The Christmas Kettle Programme was condensed in 2020 as a result of the Covid-19 conditions, and, partly as a result, fell short of the targeted $30,000. However, although the need increased this year, as was predicted, The Salvation Army was able to minister and serve all who presented.

We wish to thank the many, many volunteers that stood and manned the kettles. They are all heroes who, knowing the pandemic risk and the increased need, sustained their volunteer times. We thank the students, adult volunteers, churches, friends, businesses, civic organisations, and council and board members who volunteered day after day, greeting people at the kettle.

A special thanks to the businesses that partnered with us and provided space inside and outside to set up the kettle stands; those who held special Christmas sale events during that jingle period.

The Christmas Hamper and Toy Programme was expanded this year with distribution at three different locations to meet the need of those that are marginalised, as well as those still struggling from the pandemic. We are grateful for the number of Individuals, schools, churches, business and civic organisations, food suppliers, farmers, food stores, wholesalers and so many others who unexpectedly contributed in so many ways.

Special thanks go to organisers of “Fill the Truck”, the radio personalities of Magic 102, who like others provided a venue and opportunity for the entire community to participate in the joy of giving. Thanks for your willingness to organise “community helping community”.

The Salvation Army was able to minister and serve more than 1,200 families, which represents comfortably in excess of 3,500 children, seniors and adults during the Christmas period. We say thanks to our partners who assisted us — more than 300 at special dinners, and at least 3,000 regular clients at our feeding programme during the month.

We are overjoyed to say that you, the Bermuda community, helped the Christmas Letter Appeal to exceed the stated goal of $500,000 for the 2020 Christmas Appeal. To the entire community, including children, individuals, clubs, families, churches, small businesses, local businesses, international businesses, institutions and foundations, we express our heartfelt thanks.

We praise God for Bermudians, a compassionate people, continuing to give of their time, expertise and resources to assist The Salvation Army in their mission of “Hope” to others.

MAJOR ROB KERR

Divisional Leader

The Salvation Army