Major LeDrew has recently moved to Ottawa from Newfoundland. He and his wife, Major Brandi LeDrew have taken on the role of senior pastors at Ottawa Citadel. They moved here in August with their daughter, Zoe and son, Lucas.
Both Major Dwayne and Major Brandi were trained as pastors in Newfoundland and up until this point in their careers have only served in Newfoundland. Coincidentally, one of their first appointments was at Rosemary's hometown church in the small, outport town of Pilley’s Island. They have been working hard since their arrival. Ottawa Citadel is a very busy church throughout the year, but Christmastime is extremely busy for the Salvation Army as a whole.
Major Dwayne spoke about the Salvation Army’s Christmas Kettle campaign, which RCOS has participated in for many years. He reported that due to COVID, donations from the campaign in 2021 were down about 40%. That directly impacts their ability to help those in need in our community.
The Ottawa Citadel is responsible for six kettles, including "our" kettle at Loblaws at South Keys. All funds raised by these kettles are used by Ottawa Citadel in our community.
The Salvation Army has analyzed their kettle campaign to optimize their process. In the past they have paid people to work the kettles and kept the kettles "active" as much as possible. However, their research has shown that some periods reap little return. This year, they will rely solely on volunteers to represent the Salvation Army and greet the public. They have scheduled the active time for kettles to make best use of volunteers' time and maximize their potential.
Major Dwayne commented that needs in our area are changing. There is an increase in people relying on food banks, more new Canadians trying to get settled, an overall greater demand financially and socially. Having stressed the needs in our area, he thanked RCOS for its caring approach to community and continued support of the program.
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