ROSEVILLE, Minn. — The Red Kettles and bell ringers from the Salvation Army are a holiday staple, clanging away with their bells, spreading cheer and raising money for those in need.
But if you've seen fewer of the bell ringers this year, it's because the Salvation Army said they're still in desperate need of volunteers. In the Twin Cities, the Salvation Army is more than 3,000 hours short of what volunteers were able to raise last year.
“When times are tough, as they are now, we see more people relying on The Salvation Army for help,” said Lt. Colonel Dan Jennings, Salvation Army Northern Division commander. “In turn, we rely on more volunteers for their help at this most important time of year.”
The charity has set a kettle fundraising goal of $2 million for this year. Overall, the Salvation Army's Christmas fundraising goal is $12.5 million.
In the Twin Cities, the Salvation Army reported a spike in the need for their services as inflation sparked a rise in gas prices, rent prices and the cost of food. Unfortunately, the costs for charity are rising as well.
“Hitting our Red Kettle goal would go a long way in helping us provide those services," said Major Scott Shelbourn, Twin Cities commander.
There are hundreds of dates, times and locations available and in need of volunteers. According to the Salvation Army, volunteers are the difference between an empty kettle and one that raises about $30-$60 per hour. This money could be enough to provide a family with groceries or help or shelter an individual.
“Bell ringing is a fun event, especially for friends and family members who ring together,” said Sophie Crowell, volunteer relations director. “A good example are the Berry sisters who’ve been ringing bells and singing carols for 17 years, and whose kids now join them. It’s a great way to get in the Christmas spirit, while at the same time helping people in serious need of assistance.”
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