The Salvation Army helps those in need.   Now they need Thompson's help.   Roy Bladen with the Salvation Army explains.

"The Food Bank has been very busy the last few months and our inventory has gone down considerably.    We are having difficulty keeping the Food Bank stocked.   There are three items we can never, ever get enough of, and that is juices, cereals and peanut butter.   Pasta sauce would probably be in fourth place."

Bladen says around 25 families and individuals use the Food Bank weekly.  The upcoming holiday season will put a bigger strain on resources. 

The Salvation Army also provides an extra helping hand in Thompson, especially during the Christmas season.   Bladen, advises us about some changes.  

"Well, this year we're going to be doing things a little bit different for Christmas.  Our hampers will be a gift voucher for Family Foods for the value of $50.    And we will be distributing those probably about the beginning of December and they will be valued until January 7th.    And then we'll also be distributing our toys from the church location on Wednesday, December 17th."

Applications for hampers and toys will be available only at the Salvation Army office starting November 1st.   

The Salvation Army Christmas kettles are another big part of the season of giving.   Roy shares with us when they'll be out and where they'll be.  

"The exact date is Thursday, November the 20th.   There are going to be 5 locations.  There will be one at Walmart, one at Safeway, one at Family Foods, one at Shoppers Drug Mart and one at the Liquor Store.   History tells us that they're the busiest spots."

If you have an hour or two to spare, you can help out by manning a kettle.  To sign up call the Salvation Army office at 677-36-58.