The Salvation Army has officially launched its annual Christmas Kettle Appeal in Barbados, with a special emphasis on supporting Jamaica’s recovery from the devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa. The campaign, which kicked off at Golden Square Freedom Park on Friday, marks the beginning of the island’s giving season. This year’s initiative includes a dedicated Jamaica Relief Day on Saturday, where all funds raised across Barbados and Saint Lucia will be directed toward aiding Jamaica’s recovery efforts. The fundraising target for this year’s appeal is set at $850,000. Major Robert Pyle, Divisional Commander for Barbados and Saint Lucia, emphasized the importance of collective action, stating, ‘To lift a family, a man, a woman, a boy, a girl requires many hands working together. The need is great, the work is demanding, but it is necessary.’ The campaign’s theme, ‘Lend a Helping Hand,’ resonates deeply with the regional appeal for support. Paul Bernstein, chairman of the Salvation Army advisory board, highlighted the significance of the campaign, noting that it accounts for 80% of the organization’s annual income. From January to September, the Salvation Army provided food hampers to over 1,000 families, clothing and furniture to more than 12,000 people, and served over 36,000 meals. President Sandra Mason praised the organization’s transparency and compassion, while Scotiabank, the title sponsor for seven decades, reaffirmed its commitment to the cause. Major Paula Pyle also expressed gratitude to various organizations for their continued support.