BY KELLY ROCHE

Close to $420,000 was collected in Mississauga during the Salvation Army’s annual Christmas Kettle campaign, which raised more than $22 million across Canada.

“All of the kettle donations made at the locations in Mississauga remain locally in Mississauga and enable the Salvation Army to help vulnerable people with basic necessities such as food, clothing, shelter and other provisions,” said spokesman Neil Leduke.

The charity exceeded its fundraising goal of $21 million.

Contributions allow the Salvation Army to continue operating life-changing programs such as substance abuse recovery, housing supports, job and skills training, and budgeting and education classes, which help people find a way out of poverty.

Hosted at more than 2,000 locations nationwide, the annual Christmas Kettle campaign is the organization’s largest fundraising drive of the year.

“We are truly grateful for the continued support of our donors, volunteers and community partners, which enables us to help struggling Canadians during the Christmas season and throughout the year,” said Commissioner Susan McMillan.

In 2015, the Salvation Army helped more than 1.85 million people in need.

• Mississauga Temple – $159,965
• Erin Mills – $102,051
• Cornerstone (Meadowvale) – $157,915

Total: $419,931

(Source: Salvation Army)