Rex Murphy and $200,000 Kick-Off Calgary Kettle Campaign

Political commentator and media personality Rex Murphy captivated the audience of 600 people at the Hope in the City Luncheon in Calgary. The event kicked off the 2016 Christmas Kettle Campaign, which aims to raise one million dollars.

Murphy’s address spoke to The Salvation Army’s persistent, though often quiet, response to need in society. “Spirit lifts us in ordinary and extraordinary ways when there is manifest need – it is the Albertan and The Salvation Army way.”

Prior to Murphy taking the stage, the Kettle Campaign got off to a $200,000 start. Calgary businesses dug deep and delivered over $100,000 in sponsorships for the event. In addition, Gerry Wood, owner of Wood Automotive Group, and his family made a $100,000 donation to the campaign.

Wood brought a roar of laughter from the crowd when he remarked that if a Scottish family could dig deep, then everyone else in the audience could too. Wood has served on The Salvation Army’s Calgary Advisory Board for more than a decade and said of The Salvation Army, “They don’t bring a lot of attention to themselves or look to take credit, they just get on with getting done what needs to be done.”

“We weren’t sure what to expect this year given the state of the economy in Alberta,” states Major Ron Cartmell, Alberta & Northern Territories Divisional Commander. “But looking around the room today and seeing the long list of sponsors, we know that our prayers have been answered!”

The Calgary Kettle Campaign runs from November 18 to December 24 at malls and stores throughout Calgary, Cochrane, and Airdrie. Donations can also be made online at www.fillthekettle.com.

Platinum Sponsor

Silver Sponsor

Bronze Sponsors