Christmas Kettles
Every donation dropped into a Christmas kettle stays right in the community where it’s given. By volunteering, you're helping provide food, shelter, clothing, and other direct supports to individuals and families facing hardship. Whether you sign up solo or bring friends, family, coworkers, or a community group, your presence at a kettle helps keep hope alive for thousands.
Campaign Dates: November 14 – December 24, 2026
Three Shifts per day: There are three 3-hour shifts where volunteer Kettle Hosts are at various locations. The first shift is 10am – 1pm, second is 1pm – 4pm and the third shift is 4pm – 7pm. Timing can vary slightly depending on location traffic and Kettle Host availability.
Presence of the Kettle Hosts: Each kettle stand will be occupied by 1 to 3 volunteer Kettle Hosts at a time. Kettles can be hosted solo, with your family, or a few friends. Having 1-3 people per shift is ideal.
Role Overview
As a volunteer Kettle Host, you greet shoppers, offer warm holiday cheer, and receive donations on behalf of The Salvation Army. Where permitted, you may ring a bell to gently remind the public of the opportunity to give. No special skills are required—just kindness, reliability, and a welcoming spirit.
Why It Matters
More than 2.7 million people across Canada rely on The Salvation Army each year for practical support and compassionate care. Many struggle to access basics like food, clothing, and safe shelter. Funds raised through the Christmas Kettle Campaign ensure these essential services stay available to anyone who needs them. Every dollar raised at our kettle locations in the City of Vancouver go toward Boundless Vancouver’s local programs.
Join Us
Commit to one shift—or several throughout the season. Every hour you give helps restore hope and dignity for people in your community.
Volunteer today and help keep the spirit of Christmas alive for all.
Join us in making a difference this Christmas season
Apply to become a volunteer today!
Are you an existing kettle volunteer?
Sign in to The Salvation Army portal to easily schedule and manage your shifts.
Volunteer
BECOME A BELL RINGER
- Flexible shifts with no long-term commitment
- Easy, fun and rewarding
- Pick your hours and your days
Christmas Kettle Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ
The Salvation Army Christmas Kettle Campaign is an annual fundraising effort during the Christmas season. Kettles are found in 2,000 locations across Canada and are an opportunity for the public to donate whatever funds they can to support the work of The Salvation Army during the Christmas season and throughout the year.