Charity needs a minimum of $1,000,000 in monetary donations to maintain its ability to help the most vulnerable in our community in 2026
Images supplied.
The Salvation Army issued the following media release.
The Salvation Army in Bermuda is issuing an urgent appeal to residents and corporate businesses as monetary donations fall 50% compared to this time last year, even as demand for essential services continues to rise across the island.
While the organization is grateful for the generous food donations and gifts in kind received throughout 2025, the sharp decline in financial contributions to the Red Kettle Campaign and Red Shield Appeal threatens critical Christmas assistance and year-round programs that thousands rely on.
“Our kettle bells are ringing, but far fewer donations are being dropped in,” says Captain Dennis Maybury, Public Relations Officer for The Salvation Army in Bermuda. “The Salvation Army needs a minimum of $1,000,000 in monetary donations to maintain our ability to help the most vulnerable in our community in 2026. This is a critical moment. Every dollar matters.”
In 2024, there were 60,191 visits made to the Salvation Army for assistance, an increase of 20.4%. Funds raised support a wide range of services, including food banks and meal programs, emergency shelters for individuals and families experiencing homelessness, addiction recovery services, disaster response, and outreach to vulnerable seniors.
“When donations decline, real people are impacted,” Maybury adds. “We are seeing more first-time requests for help than ever before—working families struggling with rising costs, seniors on fixed incomes, and individuals facing sudden crises. We are committed to serving everyone who comes to us, but we cannot do it alone.”
Last year alone, 29,200 meals were provided by the Salvation Army through community feeding programs and shelters, an increase of 41.4% over prior year, demonstrating the scale of need and the vital role the organization plays in Bermuda.
The Salvation Army is calling on individuals, families, and corporate partners to step forward with urgent financial support to help close the funding gap before year’s end.
“Our promise to serve and give hope has never wavered,” says Maybury. “Needs are rising, donations are down, and the window to act is narrowing. Giving today ensures that hope remains within reach for those who will need our help in 2026.”
Donations can be made at Red Kettle locations island-wide, online to the Red Shied Appeal at SalvationArmy.bm/donate, or by calling 292-0601.
