Badges for the Bell: Law Enforcement Rings in Support for The Salvation Army in Washington
WASHINGTON, Pa. (November 30, 2023) - Members of law enforcement held a “Battle of the Badges” for a good cause this holiday season. To help kick off the Red Kettle Campaign in Washington, Pennsylvania, The Washington County Sheriff’s Office, and the South Strabane Township Police Department volunteered as bell ringers for The Salvation Army.
“It is important to remind people, this all takes place with community help,” Deputy Elizabeth Davidson, Washington County Sheriff’s Office said. “Without the help of the local Salvation Army, we could not do our own programs in the community. It takes a village to serve, and we are blessed by this ongoing partnership.”
The two departments involved in this year’s friendly competition rang the bells for two hours at the same time at two different retailers. This year’s event took place on the Wednesday before Thanksgiving, a very busy shopping day at both locations, Sam’s Club and Giant Eagle. This year, the South Strabane Township Police Department won the “Battle of the Badges” raising $593.05. The Washington County Sheriff’s Office raised $527.37, finishing at a close second place.
Deputy Davidson says many of their officers came from humble beginnings and have memories of joyful Christmas mornings, thanks to help from The Salvation Army. Red Kettle donations ensure The Salvation Army can continue critical feeding programs, rent and utility assistance, seasonal assistance as well as youth empowerment and spiritual programs for families and individuals.
“Ultimately, the community wins every day when our amazing volunteers pick up a bell to ring at one of our Red Kettles,” Captain Jason Imhoff, Commanding Office of the Washington Salvation Army said. “We are so grateful for their service and thankful for the privilege to serve the community alongside them. We look forward to continuing this tradition for years to come.”
Funds raised through the annual Red Kettle Campaign remain in the community where donations are made making it possible for The Salvation Army to deliver life-changing programs and services throughout the year. The Salvation Army’s goal is to raise $45,000 in Washington, Pennsylvania this season. Donations to the Red Kettle Campaign, can be made in person at a Red Kettle location or virtually by visiting, https://salarmy.us/WashingtonKettle. Donations can also be made by texting the word “Kettle” to 31333. Donors can then reply with their ZIP code to ensure each donation goes directly back into the community where they reside.