A tradition that began more than a hundred years ago of feeding families in need during the holidays is set to return to Manitoba.

The Salvation Army’s Christmas kettle drive will kick off on November 14 with the organization’s Hope in the City breakfast.

The 17th annual fundraiser brings together Winnipeg’s leaders and change-makers, marking the start of the fundraising campaign.

This year’s goal is $340,000.

“This is slightly more than last year, and we recognize that we need to continue to increase this amount because the needs continue to increase,” said Maj. Al Hoeft, divisional secretary of Army public relations. of Salvation on the Prairies.

The Salvation Army runs programs year-round to support people in need, Major Hoeft said, but needs become extreme during the holidays.

To meet demand, the organization is sending its iconic red kettles to malls and stores across Manitoba to collect donations, whether by cash or card.

The organization will also once again host its Toy Mountain campaign at CF Polo Park, which calls on the public to donate an unwrapped toy or cash.

With no snow so far this year, Major Hoeft said the Christmas kettle drive could help usher in the festive period.

“It’s kind of a hallmark of Christmas. When you see that, you know, it’s Christmas time, but it’s also an opportunity for us to support our neighbors and really work together to ensure that everyone has the kind of Christmas that we want them to have. he passes.

More details can be found on the Salvation Army website.

– With files from CTV’s Rachel Lagacé