Minister Diana Pokie of Sociale Zaken en Volkshuisvesting (SoZaVo) on Saturday, 31 October 2026, launched the 102nd Christmas Kettles campaign of the Leger des Heils. At the official launch, the minister presented a donation of SRD 25,000 on behalf of the ministry. With this contribution, SoZaVo aims to support the organisation in its annual assistance to individuals and families facing financial hardship.
During the gathering, Pokie stressed that supporting vulnerable groups is not solely a task of the government. According to her, cooperation between civil society organisations, companies, institutions and citizens is necessary to better reach people in need of assistance.
“The government is grateful to every organisation that contributes to the welfare of our society. Social care is a shared responsibility. The ministry cannot fulfil this task alone. It is precisely through cooperation with civil society organisations and other stakeholders that we can do more for people who need support,” the minister said.
Appreciation for the efforts of the Leger des Heils
Pokie expressed her appreciation for the Leger des Heils, which has been raising money through the Christmas Kettles campaign for more than a century to support people in difficult circumstances. The annual collection campaign gives citizens and companies the opportunity to make a financial contribution to assistance during the holiday season according to their means.
The minister stressed that the amount of a donation should not be central, but rather the willingness to help others. She therefore called on society to support the campaign.
“Give what you can spare, no matter how small or large your contribution may be. Not everyone has the same means, but everyone can contribute in his or her own way. When we join forces, together we can make a difference for people who are struggling,” Pokie said.
Cooperation with civil society organisations
According to the minister, initiatives such as the Christmas Kettles campaign are an important addition to the social support provided by the government. The ministry therefore intends to continue cooperating with civil society organisations committed to the welfare of vulnerable groups.
With the official launch of the 102nd edition, the Leger des Heils is once again appealing to society to contribute to supporting less affluent individuals and families during the upcoming Christmas period.
