Thanks to some new technology, donating a few bucks to help the needy just became a lot more convenient, as The Salvation Army has introduced a tap-and-go system.
“We used to use debit machines, but now with technology, we can use TipTap. So people can pass by with their card, their phone, their smart watch, and just tap that square and donate $5,” said Capt. Robbie Donaldson, regional officer for The Salvation Army in Timmins.
“If they want to, they can tap again, and donate $10, and so on, up to $50.”
As part of The Salvation Army’s annual Christmas Kettle Campaign, the technology is being featured at more than 1,000 kettle stations across Canada.
Powered by technology from telecom giant Rogers, the program launched on Dec. 1. It allows people who may not have change or cash on hand, but would still like to contribute the option.
“It’s particularly important during COVID, because we can have unmanned stands here. It basically says this stand is unmanned, but please continue to tap and donate, and then we don’t worry about the security of the cash,” said Donaldson.
He said there were a few technical connectivity issues last week, so the first day of local testing was Saturday. It had mixed results.
“It worked where people were in attendance, like Craig here” he said, motioning to his colleague, Craig Wilson, who has been with The Salvation Army for 30 years.
“We had two spots where people were not in attendance, and people hadn’t caught on yet that they can still use it when it’s unattended. As long as that little green light is on, go ahead and tap.”
Monday was the first full day of use at Your Independent Grocer, and Donaldson said the interest had been building by the hour.
In addition to Your Independent Grocer, the tap-and-go kiosks will also be stationed at Food Basics, the Walmart Pharmacy, and the Walmart grocery entrance right up until Dec. 24.
“We’re also looking for volunteers to man the kettles, and if anybody is willing to give time, perhaps students who need volunteer hours, I’d ask you to call Tina at 705-288-5565, and get signed up to do a shift.
“We desperately need more volunteers to make this campaign successful,” said Donaldson.
The spirit of service and giving is very personal to Donaldson, who said he was saved by The Salvation Army five years ago.
“By being a person who received the benefit of these funds, I was at the food bank asking for help. I’ve worked my way through. I'm a chaplain, I’m an officer now, and I look after Timmins and Kirkland Lake.”
Timmins Mayor George Pirie was on hand to congratulate Donaldson and Wilson on their efforts and check out the new technology.
“I'm excited about anything that makes giving easier, and that's what this does,” he said.
“I think we’ve got a very caring and giving community, and this just facilitates that. It’s an excellent innovation.”
The Salvation Army hosted a turkey dinner a few weeks ago, and will serve another one close to Christmas.
Unfortunately, as Donaldson pointed out, it will have to be a take-out style service due to COVID restrictions.
He noted that all funds collecting at any tap stations or kettles in Timmins stays in Timmins.
“We’re grateful to the community of Timmins for all that they give to us, to allow us to serve the people of the community,” said Donaldson. “You are supporting The Salvation Army, but in effect, you are supporting your neighbours, and there is so much need, especially in the time of COVID.”
