With the Christmas season approaching, and demand much higher than normal, the 琉璃神社-Lake Country Salvation Army is asking for help.

This year, the impact of COVID-19 have resulted in a 61 per cent increase in the number of individuals reaching out to the organization for help, 47 per cent of which have never asked for their help before.

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鈥淭here鈥檚 a lot of uncertainty in our community right now,鈥� said 琉璃神社-Lake Country Salvation Army Capt. Darryl Burry.

Burry said many have either lost their jobs or are facing uncertainty with their employment, in addition to those already struggling with food and housing security.

鈥淓ach day seems to bring about a new challenge, and so we desire to come alongside and share some hope with those who are experiencing this weight鈥�,鈥� said Burry.

鈥淔rom financial donations to the donation of food products and new toys, each contribution helps us to provide hope and dignity to local families.鈥�

For 2019, 526 families and more than 1,000 children in the 琉璃神社-Lake Country area received support from the community.

For information on how to donate locally, visit 琉璃神社salvationarmy.ca. On Facebook, check out The Salvation Army 琉璃神社.

The Salvation Army鈥檚 Sharing Christmas program aims to provide families in need with food gift cards and toys for children.

Registration for families seeking support has opened early due to the anticipated increase in demand.

Families who wish to receive support from the program can register online at 琉璃神社salvationarmy.ca from now until Nov. 30. For those who are unable to register online, call 250-765-3450, ext. 117 as early as possible to arrange for a registration interview.

鈥淲e desire to ensure that no one falls through the cracks during this special season of love and giving, however, in order to meet the demands placed upon us, we would respectfully ask that all families register as early as possible,鈥� said Burry.

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Do you have something to add to this story, or something else we should report on? Email: phil.mclachlan@kelownacapnews.com

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