Nugent and Custer Foundations Give Back with Kettle Match
With just twelve days until Christmas, The Salvation Army's annual Red Kettle fundraising campaign is getting a helping hand from two local foundations. The Elizabeth Ruddick Nugent Foundation and the Custer Foundation are matching donations made to Bartholomew County Red Kettles on Friday, December 16 and Saturday, December 17. The combined gifts will match cash donations from shoppers up to $5,000.
"Each year in our small town we find ourselves praying for love and support from the community and daring to pray boldly that the Lord will either supply a multitude of faithful and consistent donors of one of two major donors," shared Captain Amy Tompkins of The Salvation Army of Columbus. "The matching funds from Custer Foundation and Nugent Foundation will give us the boost that we need to stay on our projected path. Meeting our goal after a few set-backs gives us the incentive to expect that our services to Columbus will continue and thrive."
The Salvation Army of Columbus has worked throughout the pandemic and recent economic downturn to meet the increased needs of residents facing uncertainty, job loss, and a rising cost of living. With Christmas just around the corner, Capt. Tompkins and her team are busy ensuring that families have a joyful holiday filled with hope and love, not fear and disappointment. Donations made to Red Kettles in November and December keep the hope alive for these families long after Christmas has passed.
"We are always grateful for the quarters and pennies that come into our kettles," said Captain Tompkins, "but I will admit that a $100 bill brings a sigh of relief. We don't appreciate them more - we just know that God uses those donors to bless us in so many ways."
The Salvation Army is in need of volunteers to help ring bells at Red Kettles this weekend and on the final shopping days leading up to Christmas. These important volunteers are vital to reaching the goal of raising $5,000 on Friday and Saturday. 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.