The Salvation Army of Greater Cleveland has Fewer Kettles to Meet Record High Needs
Cleveland, OH (December 11th, 2020) – The needs have never been greater this year and The Salvation Army of Greater Cleveland has seen this firsthand throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. With local needs for their food programs increasing over 174% since March, The Salvation Army is depending on their annual holiday fundraising campaign, including their red kettles, to keep their services going. The Salvation Army of Greater Cleveland kettle campaign is behind $400,000 with only two weeks left. “Where we have kettles, we are seeing good donations from the community. However, we simply don’t have enough folks to staff all of our kettle locations. Health concerns around COVID have drastically reduced our ability to have bell ringers at each of our retail partners.” stated Major Thomas Applin, Divisional Secretary of Greater Cleveland Area Services. This year’s goal for the fundraising drive is $650,000. The funds raised through the red kettles provide programs such as Christmas assistance, emergency food, housing and utility assistance, after school activities and programs for seniors, to highlight a few.
With safety a top priority at the kettles this holiday season, The Salvation Army will be offering contactless giving at the Red Kettles. Individuals will be able to use Apple Pay and Google Pay at the kettles. “So many people do not carry cash on them nowadays. We are excited to have a way to engage with more individuals. It is a great piece of technology that is simple and easy to use!” said Major Applin. The new feature will allow anyone with a smartphone to “bump” the Apple Pay and Google Pay icon or scan a QR code with their camera to make a donation. “This year’s kettle campaign also includes a virtual online kettle for those that want to support our efforts from the safety and comfort of their home.” continued Major Applin.
For those looking to support The Salvation Army in helping those in need, there are a few options available:
- Volunteer to be a Bell Ringer at SalvationArmyCleveland.Org
- Donate Online: http://salarmy.us/greaterclevelandredkettle
- Call: 1-800-Sal-Army
- Mail: Donate directly to The Salvation Army at 2507 E. 22nd St. Cleveland, OH 44115
For more information about The Salvation Army of Greater Cleveland, or to request services this holiday season, call 216-861-8185.
The Salvation Army’s Mission
The Salvation Army, an international movement, is an evangelical part of the universal Christian church. Its message is based on the Bible. Its ministry is motivated by the love of God. Its mission is to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs in His name without discrimination. Nearly 30 million Americans receive assistance from The Salvation Army each year through the broadest array of social services that range from providing food for the hungry, relief for disaster victims, assistance for the disabled, and outreach programs for youth. For more information, go to www.SalvationArmyCleveland.org.