Right now, The Salvation Army says it is 24% behind where it
was last year with indicators that the needs they work to meet are even
greater. Red Kettle donations fund the majority of The Salvation Army’s
programs and services to help those in need year-round, including warming
centers for the homeless, anti-human trafficking programs, counseling for
domestic abuse victims, after-school programs for children, and helping
families escape poverty by addressing challenges, like unemployment, unstable
housing, and lack of education.
There are 5 fewer days this year for bell ringers to collect
donations at the iconic Red Kettles, because of the late Thanksgiving. The
State Commander, Major Ivan Rock, says that’s a big part of the problem and a
slow Red Kettle Campaign could lead to dire consequences.
“Right now, donations are down at almost every Salvation
Army location across the state and we believe it is from the shortened season,”
Major Rock says. “We’re losing 5 days and it could have a devastating impact
that will be felt next year if we don’t make up some ground.”
To help fill the gap, The Salvation Army is launching a
couple of new promotions this week. On Thursday, law enforcement officers will
help ring the bell at Kettle locations across Upstate New York to raise support
during the Bells & Badges event. On Friday, The Salvation Army is asking
neighbors to donate a $20 bill, check, bump or scan at the Kettle to help them
close out the season successfully.
Major Rock, says, “This isn’t just about our bottom line.
It’s about transforming lives. It’s about providing hope where there is none.
It’s about the look we see in a child’s face when they see the love that comes
from the entire community.”
The bell ringing and iconic red kettles have been a fixture
of the holiday season for 128 years. The funds raised in the Red Kettle provide
for Christmas assistance programs and year-round support for a list of
programs, including homeless services and shelter, utility assistance, and
feeding programs.
