The Need is Greater Than Ever This Season
The Salvation Army of Kent County is thankful for the generous local support already received toward its Red Kettle Campaign goal of $1.3 million. As the holiday season gets into full swing this week, and with more people facing hardships this year than ever before, The Salvation Army invites the Grand Rapids community to consider helping Rescue Christmas in a multitude of ways.
“This year more than ever, it is especially important that we all reach out to help our neighbors in need,” said Major Glen Caddy, Divisional Commander. “Please take time to consider how you can help. Any gift or amount of time will make a big difference in the lives of those we help.”
- Physical red kettles: Nearly 40 locations throughout Kent County will have the iconic red kettle stationed outside. Every kettle comes equipped with Kettle Pay, allowing donors to make a donation via Google Pay or Apple Pay. Cash and coins are always accepted. Click here for a full list of locations.
- Angel Tree: About 120 Kent County locations are hosting an Angel Tree this season. After finding a participating Angel Tree location here, donors can choose a tag, purchase a gift and then return the unwrapped gift to any of the Angel Tree locations. New this season, Angel Tree shopping can be done entirely online. >> SHOP ONLINE
- Bell Ringing: All locations are in need of volunteer bell ringers. The Salvation Army has adopted nationally mandated safety protocols for physical kettles to ensure the safety of bell ringers, donors and partners. Bell ringers at every Kent County establishment are instructed to follow CDC, state and local guidelines for social distancing and mask wearing. >> SIGN UP
- Virtual Red Kettle: Through the entirely contactless Virtual Red Kettle, donors can set up their own personal red kettle online and raise funds from their friends and family. >> LEARN MORE
- Round Up at Walmart: At participating Walmarts in Grand Rapids, customers have the option to round up their purchases to the nearest dollar and donate the difference to The Salvation Army. Customers can do this in stores at manned cash registers, on Walmart.com or through the Walmart app. The option to donate is underway and will run through Dec. 31.
- Holiday Book Drive: Happening until Dec. 12, donors can purchase a book from the Barnes & Noble located in Woodland Mall and have it donated to The Salvation Army Angel Tree.
- Direct Donations: Donate online, call (616) 459-3433 or 1-800-SAL-ARMY, or mail to 1215 Fulton Street East, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, to make a donation. Nationally, $0.82 of every dollar donated goes directly toward providing Salvation Army programs and all the money stays within the community in which it was given. >> DONATE ONLINE
Please note this list is subject to change as more ways to help The Salvation Army are added throughout the holiday season.