FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Central Okanagan, B.C. July 6, 2026–The Salvation Army Okanagan Central is proud to launch its second annual Hope 4 Kids Summer Campaign, a community fundraising initiative dedicated to helping children and youth across the Central Okanagan access programs and opportunities that support their mental, emotional, and physical well-being.
Last year, the campaign exceeded expectations, raising $104,323 and surpassing its $100,000 goal. Building on the success of the inaugural campaign, Hope 4 Kids returns with a renewed commitment to ensuring financial barriers do not prevent children from accessing activities that foster confidence, resilience, and essential life skills. This year, Hope 4 kids aims to raise $125,000 to expand its impact and help even more children thrive.
Funds raised through the campaign will directly support programs and services including organized sports, swimming lessons, counselling, mental wellness supports, tutoring, cooking and art classes, summer camps, and other enrichment opportunities for local children and youth.
"The response to our first Hope 4 Kids campaign demonstrated just how much our community cares about the well-being of children and families," said Captain Jennifer Henson, Officer and Pastor at The Salvation Army Okanagan Central. "As the cost of living continues to impact households across our region, we know that many families are forced to make difficult decisions. Through Hope 4 Kids, we can help ensure that children and youth still have access to experiences that foster growth, confidence, and a sense of belonging."
The campaign reflects The Salvation Army Okanagan Central's ongoing commitment to addressing the long-term effects of poverty on young people and creating opportunities that empower them to thrive.
"Every child deserves the chance to develop their talents, build friendships, and discover their potential," said Captain Rob Henson, Officer and Pastor at The Salvation Army Okanagan Central. "The support we receive through Hope 4 Kids helps remove barriers and opens doors for children who might otherwise miss out on experiences many of us take for granted."
The Salvation Army Okanagan Central is inviting individuals, businesses, and community organizations to support the Hope 4 Kids campaign and invest in the future of local children and youth.
Donations can be made throughout the summer, helping provide opportunities that have a lasting impact on a child's development and well-being. Donations can be made securely online at www.okanagancentralsalvationarmy.ca, by visiting our main office at 1480 Sutherland Avenue or by phoning 250-860-2329.
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About The Salvation Army:
The Salvation Army is an international Christian organization that began its work in Canada in 1882 and has grown to become one of the largest direct providers of social services in the country. The Salvation Army gives hope and support to vulnerable people in 400 communities across Canada and in more than 130 countries around the world. Its community and social service activities include: hunger relief for individuals and families through food banks and feeding programs; shelter for people experiencing homelessness and support for those needing housing; rehabilitation for those struggling with addiction; long-term care and palliative care; Christmas assistance such as food hampers and toys; after-school programs, camps, and school nutrition programs for children and youth; and life-skills classes such as budgeting, cooking for a family, and anger management. When you give to The Salvation Army, you are investing in the future of marginalized and overlooked people in your community.
For more information, contact: Captain Jennifer Henson, 250-212-3744
Jennifer Henson
Officer
Office: 250-860-2329
Cell: 250-212-3744
jennifer.henson@salvationarmy.ca