Foothills residents, businesses and organizations really stepped it up again for the Salvation Army's Christmas Kettle campaign.

Salvation Army Ministry Intern John Arndt says the requests for hampers jumped up to 986, about 400 more than in 2021.

"It was quite sad to see the increase, but with that and with the donations from our amazing community we were able to give 780 children a Christmas this year," he says.

He thanked the High River Canadian Tire for hosting a Toy Drive on December 3 where they doubled the donations from the public, bringing the total donations to $10,800.

"Lori and her crew over at the Canadian Tire they really helped us a lot, with the donations that came in from the public they also doubled all of that, it was probably the best one we've ever had."

Shakira Forbes gave credit to the volunteers who came out and stood by the kettles, helping them reach their goal of $100,000.

"Great volunteers, some really really dedicated ones, some that put in eight-hour shifts," she says. "At first it was challenging getting volunteers but throughout the entire course we did persevere."

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