Caring Causes: Salvation Army Red Kettle

The Twin Cities Salvation Army reports that it is behind last year’s bell ringer pace by more than 3,000 hours. The social services charity said that hundreds of bell ringers are needed to help meet the Red Kettle fundraising goal of $2 million this year.

Bell ringers play a critical role in this fundraising effort as they collect anywhere from $30-$60 an hour in their kettles, all of which provides relief to struggling Twin Cities families. As an example, $25 collected in a kettle will feed a family of four for a week.

 

“When times are tough, as they are now, we see more people relying on The Salvation Army for help,” said Lt. Colonel Dan Jennings, Salvation Army Northern Division commander. “In turn, we rely on more volunteers for their help at this most important time of year.”

 

The Salvation Army reports that demand for its services has been spiking due to the impact of rising prices for food, gas, rent and utilities. “But as an organization, we’re also being challenged with increased costs,” said Major Scott Shelbourn, Twin Cities commander. “Hitting our Red Kettle goal would go a long way in helping us provide those services.”

 

“Bell ringing is a fun event, especially for friends and family members who ring together,” said Sophie Crowell, volunteer relations director. “A good example are the Berry sisters who’ve been ringing bells and singing carols for 17 years, and whose kids now join them. It’s a great way to get in the Christmas spirit, while at the same time helping people in serious need of assistance.”

 

Register to ring at a Red Kettle today at SalvationArmyNorth.org/Kettle.

 

The Salvation Army Northern Division last year helped 735,000 people overcome poverty, addiction and economic hardship through a range of social services, meeting human needs without discrimination. This year, new struggles caused by food shortages, inflation, increased energy costs and the threat of eviction have elevated the numbers of those seeking assistance.

 

By providing food for the hungry, emergency relief for disaster survivors, rehabilitation for those suffering from drug and alcohol abuse, and clothing and shelter for people in need, The Salvation Army Northern Division is #DoingTheMostGood at 77 operation centers in Minnesota and North Dakota. For more information about The Salvation Army Northern Division, please visit SalvationArmyNorth.org.