Since the first kettle was set up in 1891 in San Francisco and the first in Canada in 1906 in St. Johnn’s, Newfoundland, kettle workers (or bell ringers) have relied on the public’s generosity and the familiar kettles are now seen in more than 2,000 locations across Canada. This year in Quesnel there will be five permanent kettle locations set up Monday – Friday, Dec. 1 – 24, as well as a roving kettle which will be out at various locations across the city. Previously, the kettle campaign has raised in excess of $30,000 in Quesnel and that is this year’s goal as well. With the help of generous donors, the Salvation Army in Quesnel hopes to raise an additional $40,000 through its mail-out campaign as well. This money continues to allow the Salvation Army to operate various programs which continue to support those most in need in the community. This past year, 16,000 hot meals were served and 1,440 food bank hampers were distributed as well as many other services and programs which aim to promote dignity and well-being for those in the community. The Salvation Army would like to thank the commuinity for all it’s done in the past and continues to do today to support the Salvation Army. Left to right in Spirit Square: Salvation Army Lieutenant Stephen Van Schaick, Mayor Mary Sjostrom making a donation and Salvation Army Lieutenant Laura Van Schaick.