Salvation Army seeks spirited volunteers to help with iconic Red Kettle Campaign
By Lia Holmes and Amber Diaz • Published November 6, 2023
The Red Kettle Campaign is an iconic way The Salvation Army uses to help financially support their programs with the involvement of the community over the holiday season.
The Salvation Army has seen a growing financial demand for its charitable causes and essential services in Connecticut.
"Red Kettles are a sign of hope each holiday season in thousands of communities. The funds raised stay local, and support programs that are an essential lifeline for many of our neighbors. Registering to ring helps make a meaningful, lasting impact for those in need, so I hope those who are able will join us in our work to meet the unprecedented need," said Major Debra Ashcraft, The Salvation Army's Divisional Commander for Connecticut and Rhode Island.
Both individual and group volunteers are invited to join, with the flexibility to choose shifts from Monday to Saturday. Shifts can be as brief as two hours and are available throughout November and December.
Every dollar raised during this holiday campaign helps maintain The Salvation Army’s programs throughout the entire year.
"Bell ringers change lives. And that's exactly what they do!," Debra Ashcraft, Divisional Commander of The Salvation Army said.
"Many of our units are reporting over 45% increase in the number of people coming to our food pantries," she added.
When Katie Perrett, The Salvation Army's volunteer coordinator, got out of the military, she decided to work for the non-profit and she’s coming up on her 14-year anniversary with The Salvation Army.
"You're out there and you get to meet and greet people. You’re representative of The Salvation Army. It's just fun, you know, you might come across a really warm winter day, or you might have a really cold day. Someone could bring you some hot chocolate and support you while you're out there supporting and giving back," she said.
Here's a look at what money raised in 2022 funded in Connecticut:
- 55,858 Toys Distributed
- 22,838 Food Baskets/ Dinners Provided
- 8,043 Children Served
- 4,092 Individuals Gave the Gift of Time ; 35,724 Volunteer Hours Given
To become a volunteer bell ringer, fill out this form or email: Kathryn.Perrett@USE.SalvationArmy.Org
For alternative ways to contribute to their mission, click here to visit their website.