The Salvation Army 2014 Red Kettle Campaign officially opened Friday at 14 locations around St. Joseph.
“We lost the South Belt K-Mart,” said Salvation Army Captain Chuck Cook. “The Ace Hardware from the South End Management decided that they would have a kettle there and I think that’s going to help us not lose a site because when you lose a site you have to figure out how to make that site up with what you have left.”
This year’s goal is to raise $350,000 to support the agency’s programs and services including the homeless shelter, food assistance, emergency rent and utility assistance, youth and senior programs and more.
The kick off was held Friday morning at HyVee.
“We have a band,” said Captain Dana Cook. “Just to play some carols and everything to get in the spirit of it.”
Bell ringers will continue to raise funds through December 24 every day except Thanksgiving and Sundays.
Volunteers are still needed to help with the kettle campaign. To sign up to be a bell ringer this holiday season you can call LeeAnn at 816-232-5824.
The Salvation Army also launched its annual Online Red Kettle Campaign. In addition to dropping donations into Salvation Army kettles outside stores, individuals and organizations can host a “virtual” red kettle on their personal, group or business website.
If you’d like to help you can donate online or by mail or at the Red Kettles.