Kids raise vital funds to mark magazine anniversary

The Salvation Army’s children’s magazine Kids Alive! is set to mark its 140th anniversary next month (August 27) and to help mark the occasion children from across the country are taking part in its 140 challenge during the summer holidays. 

Young readers of the magazine are being encouraged to take part in the fundraising challenge to mark the prestigious anniversary, while raising vital funds for their local Salvation Army church or centre. The 140 challenge will see the young people get sponsored to take part in 140 different activities.  

One of those taking part is Lexi Hutchinson, nine, who will be doing 140 star jumps to raise money for her local corps in Bristol.  

Lexi said: “I’m excited to help celebrate the magazine’s birthday. I’m planning to do the star jumps all in one go and have been practicing. 

“I really want to help raise money for people who are less fortunate than me.” 

Kids Alive! was first published in 1881, then known as the Little Soldier. Aimed at children aged from 7 to 11, while the name of The Salvation Army children’s magazine has changed over the years, it has continued to be The Salvation Army’s magazine for kids throughout that time. 

Kids Alive! editor, Justin Reeves, said: “Our young readers are taking part in all sorts of activities to help us raise funds whether it be baking cakes, creating art, a sports activity like trampolining, or an act of kindness, the options are endless.  

“It’s a wonderful way that children can get active during the summer holidays and help us raise vital funds for their local Salvation Army church or centre.”