The “Annual Red Kettle Kick-off Campaign 2016” event included the traditional brass band playing Christmas songs, a teen chorus performing.
That was followed by a Mayoral Proclamation presentation in recognition of the army’s 130 years of unbroken service to the Saint Joseph area.
The Christmas total for 2016 will be $349,000.00. A new feature to Red Kettle sites this year is the ability to make donations at “Change to 41444”. Donors may text donations in denominations of $15, $25, $50 or select Other. The Salvation Army’s Angel Tree program also kicks off Thursday.
Last year, officials say they raised $294,700.53 or 79% of their goal of $375,000. A total of $105,424.49 was donated through the Red Kettles around St. Joseph.
The Red Kettle Campaign is The Salvation Army’s largest fund drive of the entire year. In Saint Joseph, funds help to operate the army’s services throughout the year; including the Booth Center for Homeless, the Family Store and the Corps Community Center. Last year, The Salvation Army provided 30 million people with assistance across America, roughly one person per second of every day. Each night 27,000 nights of shelter are delivered, with many sheltered right here in Buchanan County. Eighty-three percent of dollars donated go to direct client services.
Help ring in the Christmas season by volunteering to be a Salvation Army bell ringer by calling LeeAnn at 816.232.5824 to reserve your time and location.