The Salvation Army Swift Current began their Christmas Campaign & Kettle Kick-off yesterday morning.

The campaign features the Angel Tree that is located inside of Swift Current Mall's Miracle Room.

Major Don Grad, Local Corp Officer of Salvation Army Swift Current, explains the Angel Tree.

"(Today) is the opening of the Miracle Room which has the Angel Tree, which is the method we use in Swift Current to gather toys for the children. I think it's kind of cool, you come and take a tag (off the tree), that says boys age seven (that) has a couple of things he is looking for or hoping for. You can take that tag and go do some shopping, then bring it bac

k to the Miracle Room and it will be placed in the hamper we give to the family," Grad said Saturday morning.

The final day to drop off toys in the Miracle Room will be on Tuesday, December 13th, with the Christmas Hamper distribution taking place on Monday, December 19th and Wednesday, December 21st.

Swift Current City Councilor Pat Friesen used two words to describe yesterday's events.

"Today is the day about comfort and today is the day of joy. The comfort part is for those people that need the comfort that the Salvation Army is there for them, it's also comfort for the residents of Swift Current to know that those people are being taken care of. The joy part is it's Christmas, we're all thrilled to see the Christmas season start and we encourage everyone to get out and help the Salvation Army or do what they can to bring comfort this season," she said.    

Salvation Army Swift Current has been in the city for 103 years, have played a significant role in the southwest with emergency situations in the past.

MP of the Cypress Hills-Grassland Region David Anderson spoke about the impact the Salvation Army has.

"I think it's important we support the Salvation Army, obviously they do great work in the community and across the country. They impact probably more people across this country than virtually any other service organization so this Christmas Campaign is an import thing for Swift Current and (surrounding) area. There are a lot of people under pressure as well and it's great they have a place to go," Anderson said

If you're interested in volunteering with the Salvation Army this holiday season, you can call their office at 306-778-0515.