$12,000 Challenge: Red Kettles Matched on Final Days of Bell Ringing
With just a few days left in The Salvation Army's annual Red Kettle fundraising campaign, the local charity is getting a welcome gift a local anonymous donor. On the last three days of bell ringing – December 21, 22, and 23 – this "Angel donor" will double donations made to Monroe County Red Kettles up to $12,000.
Funds raised in the Red Kettles in November and December make it possible for The Salvation Army to provide year-round programs and services to the underserved and struggling in the community. From keeping the food pantry stocked to providing the necessary funds for emergency rent and utility assistance, donations during the holiday season make up a large part of The Salvation Army's annual budget.
"Right now we're at just over 50% of our fundraising goal," said Captain Vinal Lee of The Salvation Army of Bloomington. "Having a donor step up and offer a kettle match at the end of our bell ringing season gives us hope that we can still reach that goal. We're so grateful for this person's unwavering support of The Salvation Army throughout the years, but especially in this moment when giving is so critical to those who depend on us."
The Salvation Army is in need of volunteers to help ring bells at Red Kettles on the final shopping days leading up to Christmas. These important volunteers are vital to reaching the goal of raising $12,000 by December 23. Anyone interested in volunteering to ring a bell for two hours is invited to visit RegisterToRing.com and find a location, date, and time that works for their schedule.
Shoppers who have wrapped up early and are staying home still have a chance to be a part of this special match by giving to The Salvation Army's online Virtual Red Kettle. This fun peer-to-peer campaign runs through December 31 and is a safe, easy way to give 24/7 from the comfort of work or home.