Salvation Army Peterborough Seeks Community Support Amid Fundraising Shortfall

The Salvation Army Peterborough has launched an urgent appeal for community support as it faces a significant shortfall in its annual holiday fundraising campaign. The organization is currently $150,000 short of its target of $675,000 through the “Hope for all Seasons” and kettle campaigns. This fundraising effort is crucial, as it accounts for approximately 75 percent of the total operating budget for its community and family services during the holiday season. Without meeting this goal, The Salvation Army Peterborough will struggle to provide essential services to those in need in 2026.

Pastor Mark Dalley emphasized the pressing situation, stating, “Our community is suffering.” He urged residents to offer compassion to those facing hardships instead of judgment. “We can turn away from those hurting, judging them for their choices and the circumstances they find themselves in, or we can offer love and grace — the same things we want others to offer us when we go through difficult times.”

Since the beginning of December, The Salvation Army Peterborough has assisted over 2,000 families with Christmas hampers, thanks to the generosity of the community. Despite this support, the demand for services continues to rise. In 2025, the organization experienced a 15 percent increase in individuals accessing its services, highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by many in the area.

Community Call to Action

Dalley urged all community members to unite for a common cause this Christmas. “Our sincerest desire is that every member of the community would partner with us to help us meet the needs, and for us to come together as family this Christmas in Peterborough,” he said. He proposed that if every resident contributed just $2 before New Year’s, the organization could not only meet but exceed its fundraising goal.

The increase in demand for services is evident in the organization’s breakfast program, which has seen a consistent rise in attendance. “Unfortunately, this increase is not new — we have seen at least a 10 percent increase every year since 2020,” Dalley noted. Initially, the program primarily served the homeless, but it now supports families and students struggling to afford meals before heading off to school or work.

Dalley explained that the rising numbers, coupled with the escalating cost of food, have made it increasingly difficult for The Salvation Army to meet these needs. “Yet, we have hope,” he said, recognizing the community’s past willingness to support the organization during challenging times.

How to Help

The Salvation Army Peterborough has been a cornerstone of the local community since 1885, providing practical assistance and compassionate care to individuals and families in need. Through various programs, including the food bank, breakfast program, emergency support, and seasonal assistance, the organization aims to instill hope and dignity in those it serves.

Dalley expressed confidence in the community’s generosity, stating, “They have given generously through volunteer service and financial contributions.” He believes that if residents were aware of the depth of the need this Christmas, they would rally behind the organization once again. “That is what is at the top of our Christmas wish list this year: to see lives transformed, addictions healed, and children surrounded by the love and hope of their community.”

Donations can be made by visiting one of The Salvation Army Peterborough’s Christmas kettles located throughout the community, dropping by its offices on Simcoe Street, or mailing a cheque to The Salvation Army Peterborough at 219 Simcoe St., Peterborough ON, K9H 2H6. Credit card donations can also be made by phone by calling 705-743-3131 ext. 257 and leaving a message for a callback.

The need is greater than ever, and The Salvation Army Peterborough is calling on the community to come together during this holiday season to support those in need.