Salvation Army appeals for final push as Massy joins Christmas feeding drive

Despite a surge of community and corporate support, the Salvation Army remains just shy of its Christmas fundraising target as it urges Barbadians to help close the gap in the final days before the holiday.

Divisional Commander Major Robert Pyle confirmed on Tuesday that the organisation is still aiming to raise $850 000 this season – funding that not only provides Christmas meals and care packages but also sustains its social assistance programmes into the new year.

“Christmas time is the time of the Salvation Army, where it’s our biggest fundraising season. Presently we are slightly behind, maybe two or three percentage points from the same period last year,” he said, noting that despite ongoing economic pressure, “the Barbadian public thus far have been able to support the work of the Salvation Army.”

He made the comments at the Massy IRP annual holiday feeding programme, held at the Army’s Reed Street headquarters. The distribution conglomerate partnered directly with the Salvation Army for the first time to serve meals to clients who rely on its daily feeding initiative.

“This is a very special day, where Massy has joined us,” Major Pyle said. “Massy is the first corporate company in Barbados to share meals today with the clients that come to the Salvation Army. The good thing about this is a Christmas meal … not only regular food, but ham and turkey and macaroni pie and even cake.”

Between 200 and 300 people were expected to be served, with Major Pyle noting that the need across households has not eased.

“During the year we have had all kinds of persons, women, men, particularly women, who have come in asking for help to either hamper or monetary help in one form or the other. We recognise that the need is very great, and we are glad that as the Salvation Army we are here to serve the less fortunate in our community.”

He stressed that amid the festive mood, the mission remains grounded in dignity and compassion, stating, “Everybody deserves something nice at Christmas because people have value, regardless of whether they are rich or middle class.”

While some familiar corporate donors have returned, new companies have also joined the effort – a sign, Major Pyle suggested, of trust in the Salvation Army’s charitable work over the years.

Massy Stores Vice-President and Chief Operating Officer, Dionne Clarke-Emtage, who took part in the late-morning proceedings, said the partnership reflects the company’s duty to the community.

“This year we’re humbled to support 350 persons with a warm meal,” she said, adding that Massy Stores and Massy Distribution provided all food items and volunteer hours to deliver the outreach.

“In addition to our time, both Massy Stores and Massy Distribution have proudly donated the food items … ensuring that this initiative brings nourishment, dignity, and hope to those who need it most. Partnerships like this, especially with the Salvation Army, reflect our people-first values.”

(SB)