The Salvation Army’s Red Kettle Bell rings to mark the beginning of the Christmas season.
Cleveland, OH (November 28th, 2025) – The Salvation Army’s iconic Red Kettle campaign officially starts today, marking the beginning of the Christmas season. In their 134th year, the red kettles are a familiar sight outside many stores, with bellringers dedicated to collecting funds to support local communities. The Salvation Army in Greater Cleveland aims to raise $400,000 to help fund vital services such as food pantries, rent and utility assistance, after-school programs, and hot meal initiatives.
”2025 has continued to see families struggle with economic instability and rising prices on essential items. This year’s kettle campaign will be vital to support year-round programs for local families. Our Corps Community Center aims to help improve the lives of all our neighbors in need throughout Cuyahoga County this holiday season and beyond,” stated Captain Joel Ashcraft, Area Commander for The Salvation Army in Greater Cleveland.
The Salvation Army continues to make giving at the iconic red kettles easier than ever. Nationwide, The Salvation Army continues to offer cashless giving options like Apple Pay, Google Pay, PayPal, and Venmo at the kettle stands simply by a “bump” or a QR code scan. “Contactless giving at the kettles is a blessing. People are carrying less cash and coins; adding Venmo and PayPal to Apple Pay and Google Pay will help us engage more individuals this holiday season,” said Captain Ashcraft.
Volunteers play a vital role in The Salvation Army’s red kettle campaign. Every two hours of volunteering at a red kettle provides 104 meals to neighbors in need.
“The Salvation Army always needs volunteers to come out to their favorite retail location to ring the bell for a few hours. There is a quick and easy way to sign up to volunteer at RegistertoRing.com, “explained Captain Ashcraft.
The Salvation Army Red Kettles have been active since 1891 to help those in need. The Kettle campaign has been going on for 134 years and is one of the longest-running and most recognizable campaigns.
To volunteer to stand at a kettle, visit RegistertoRing.com. To donate to The Salvation Army in Greater Cleveland to help families this holiday season, or for more information, call 216.861.8185.