The next couple of months will once again be busy for the Chatham-Kent Salvation Army.
The weeks up to and after Christmas see a lot of people needing the organization's help, including those who use the four food banks the Salvation Army runs in Chatham, Wallaceburg, Ridgetown, and Blenheim.
According to Major Larry Bridger, the food banks currently help over 400 households every month. Between 30 and 40 new households are also signing up monthly.
"The numbers are pretty staggering at times but we (also) go through lulls," said Bridger.
Fortunately, the shelves at the food banks are in good shape thanks to the food drives done by the Knights of Columbus and the CK ATV Club.
The Salvation Army also continues to collect names of families who need a little help around Christmas.
Bridger explained they'll once again be handing out toys and food. Instead of hampers, families will receive gift cards.
"Some of the food we put in the hampers, people can't eat. At least with the gift cards they can purchase what they can eat," added Bridger.
So far, around 450 families have been registered with the Salvation Army expecting that number to increase to around 1,000. Registration will close on November 29.
The costs for the toys and gift cards will be expensive which is why the organization is relying on its annual Red Kettle Campaign.
Starting on Thursday, kettles will be set up at six locations in Chatham where people can donate to the Salvation Army. Two kettles will be in Wallaceburg starting November 21.
Bridger said they're hoping to raise around $550,000 through this campaign and other donations.
"We need the public to respond so we can help those who are coming to us for assistance," he added.
This money will also be used to cover costs of different services the Salvation Army plans to offer in 2025.
The kettles will be at the eight locations Monday to Saturday until Christmas Eve.
The Salvation Army is in desperate need of volunteers to oversee the kettles.
"My schedule is looking like swiss cheese, it's got so many holes in it," said Bridger.
More information, including how to sign up to volunteer, can be found on the Salvation Army's website.