By Kisean Joseph
The Salvation Army said it experienced an exceptional year of community service and fundraising success, exceeding its Christmas Kettle Appeal target and expanding its welfare programmes.
Under the leadership of Major Jean Raymoncil Pierre, district leader for Antigua and Barbuda, St Kitts & Nevis, and St Martin, the organisation raised over $226,000, far surpassing its initial goal of $170,000.
“We had a wonderful year in terms of the Salvation Army programmes here in Antigua,” said Major Pierre.
“We were able to not only raise our target but also pass it with ease that has facilitated us to extend our welfare programme even for Christmas. We had the support and the backup of the people of Antigua and Barbuda,” he added.
The organization’s successes have enabled it to maintain and expand its crucial community services, including a weekly feeding program that serves 150 meals to the needy. The Salvation Army also provides regular food packages to 35-40 individuals and responds to emergency situations.
“We continue to assist where there is a need. For instance, in 2024, there were a number of persons who were affected by fire. We assisted them to the best of our ability as well,” Major Pierre said. The organization also helps community members with medical prescriptions when resources allow.
The final tally for the Christmas Kettle Appeal was $226,274.95, a testament to the community’s generous support, Major Pierre noted.
“I believe we could have raised maybe some more if we had a full slate of volunteers to help us to man the kettles, but we are extremely grateful,” he added.
Looking ahead, the Salvation Army has already planned several community initiatives.
Beginning next week, the organization will visit 10 nursing homes across the country, delivering care packages and cleaning supplies to residents. Their Meals on Wheels programme will resume in February, and a Youth Council programme, focusing on motivational speaking and leadership development for young people, is scheduled for February 21-23.
The Salvation Army’s presence in Antigua and Barbuda will mark a significant milestone this year, as it celebrates 122 years of service to the community. Major Pierre emphasised the organization’s commitment to its motto of “Soup, Soap, Salvation,” explaining, “We feed the people [and] once that physical need is taken care, we make sure that they are clean by using the soap and then we teach them the gospel.
“Antigua and Barbuda is a land of supply. The people always supply the Salvation Army. They love the Salvation Army. They make the Salvation Army welfare programme their programme,” he said.
The organization welcomes community involvement and can be reached at their headquarters at 460-0115 for those wishing to volunteer or contribute to their programmes.