The Salvation Army is a busy place this time of year, with food and money donations rising dramatically just before Christmas.

That's the observation of Capt. Robert Sessford, who was contacted by the Star this week to determine how things are going for the Army during the festive season.

'The food drive this year is going well,' he said. The food donations have been generous, he added.

Sessford recommends non-prepared, basic foods to best serve the Sally Ann's goal of helping needy families.

'Package meals are appreciated, but not ideal,' he said.

'Canned fish and meat, rice, pasta, dried beans... are golden.'

So far, the Salvation Army has not reached its fundraising goal of $45,000 for 2005.

'In terms of monetary donations, we are down about six or seven thousand (dollars)... last year was a banner year, and we hope that we are able to equal last year's total,' Sessford said.

The Salvation Army puts together Christmas hampers for about 200 families in need every year.

'We provide complete turkey dinners with all the trimmings to low-income families,' Sessford said. 'The community they (recipients) walk in, cares.'

The usual Christmas hamper target will be met this year, Sessford believes. There have been generous actions by local groups, he added.

'The Gold Wing Road Riders Association canvassed door-to-door on our behalf in a Whitehorse neighbourhood,' he said.

'We are thankful to them, and to all other parties who have donated.'

Although donations pour in this time of year, some people think there is a Christmas deadline.

'People think if they do not donate before Christmas that they have to wait until next holiday season... this is not the case; donations are appreciated year-round.'

Those who would like to donate can make money donations in any of the Christmas kettles clear bubbles scattered around downtown and staffed by volunteers or they can visit the Salvation Army offices on Black Street at Fourth Avenue.

A charitable tax receipt will be mailed out to those who make monetary donations.

Another important source of income to help the Army conduct its soup kitchen and other programs is its thrift store, located beside Tags on Fourth Avenue. The store accepts donations of clothing, books, toys, furniture and other miscellaneous items.