How to Serve Those in Need in Metro Detroit This Christmas

Oct 4, 2021


Across Macomb, Oakland, and Wayne counties, families are facing pandemic poverty, hunger, and eviction. With the holiday season coming soon, many are asking how they can help their communities directly. Here are the ways you can help The Salvation Army of Metro Detroit bring relief to countless families who are struggling to make ends meet at this time. Despite every obstacle and challenge that our community faces, Hope Marches On during the holidays and throughout the year.

1. Make a donation

This Red Kettle season, The Salvation Army of Metro Detroit’s fundraising goal of $8.3 million will go towards helping the most vulnerable throughout Macomb, Oakland, and Wayne counties. Giving during the holiday season is always appreciated, and you can also opt for a sustaining monthly gift of $25 to support our work in your community all year long. This year, help Hope March On by:

  • Texting GIFT to 24365
  • Donating online
  • Donating money via online kettle, Paypal, Venmo, or physical red kettle
  • Donating cryptocurrency
  • Calling 877-SAL-MICH
  • Sending a check, made payable to The Salvation Army, to: 16130 Northland Dr, Southfield, MI 48075


2. Become a bell ringer

Our iconic Red Kettle is a staple during the Christmas season. From November 1 - December 31, hundreds of families, school groups, corporate groups, and individuals register to ring for The Salvation Army of Metro Detroit. This fundraising effort enables us to reach those who would otherwise be forgotten. Volunteer bell ringers have a tremendous impact by helping us serve their local community. We can never have too many bell ringers in Metro Detroit! Volunteers work in two-hour shifts, typically ringing at a storefront. Go to registertoring.com to get started.

We love our bell ringers! You can watch this past year's Red Kettle Wrap Up Party for a peek at how we celebrate our wonderful volunteers.

3. Participate in peer-to-peer fundraising with your own Virtual Red Kettle

A Virtual Red Kettle is a high-impact way of supporting The Salvation Army online. Even if you are not able to make a big donation, you can mobilize your family, friends, and networks to make a tremendous difference in your community. As a virtual bell ringer, you can create your own kettle, set a goal, and fundraise as much as you want for a specific region or Salvation Army location. Head to registertoring.com and click ‘I’m A Virtual Ringer’ to get started.


4. Become an Angel Tree sponsor

Every parent wants to give their child the most joyful Christmas possible. There are too many families this holiday season who are struggling to make ends meet, let alone have a merry Christmas. By becoming an Angel Tree sponsor, you provide children in need with gifts like clothes, toys, and more. Sign up now.

5. Participate in the Walmart roundup and the Registry for Good

Did you know that Walmart is supporting The Salvation Army this Christmas? Walmart hosts the Registry for Good, where you can directly purchase gift cards, food, and more for your neighbors in need.

We are so grateful for the generous support of our community! Last year, you helped us meet our goal, and we are confident that this year, Metro Detroit will practice its amazing generosity once again as Hope Marches On. For a glimpse of how our Red Kettle campaign was successful last year, view our recap video.


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