The Salvation Army of Southern IN to Compete in National Commander's Red Kettle Challenge
The Salvation Army of Southern Indiana is preparing for a special opportunity to represent The Salvation Army on a national stage. On Saturday, December 14 the annual National Commander's Red Kettle Challenge will be taking place across the United States as hundreds of Salvation Army teams ring bells for four hours in hopes of raising the most funds in their Red Kettles. Captains Kory and Heidi Strand will be representing Southern Indiana and participating in a national livestream event on The Salvation Army USA's Facebook page.
The nation-wide challenge, which takes place from Noon until 4:00 p.m. EST, aims to raise $2 million in just four hours. The location chosen by The Salvation Army of Southern Indiana for the challenge is a popular Kroger store in New Albany, located at 200 New Albany Plaza on the west side of the city.
The Salvation Army is calling on area residents, businesses, churches, and other organizations to help them win this challenge by coming to Kroger during the four-hour challenge and filling the kettle to the brim.
The Strands will be joined by many special guests - and a few surprise visitors - while they ring bells and play Christmas carols at their Red Kettle. Santa Claus himself will be ringing and encouraging shoppers to put a little extra change in the kettle on this special day.
"We have multiple donors today who are giving generously to our 2024 Kettle Campaign during the National Commander's Kettle Challenge," shared Captain Kory Strand. "Thomas and Betty Klammer have committed to sponsor the kettle on Saturday for $7,000! We are so thankful for their overwhelming support. Another anonymous donor has agreed to match the funds at our kettle during the challenge up to $5,000."
A "special delivery" is planned for some time between 1:00 p.m. and 1:30 p.m., so the Strands will be hopping on The Salvation Army USA's Facebook livestream at 1:45 p.m. to reveal the surprise gift to viewers following along across the country.
With just 11 days left of bell ringing at Red Kettles, this challenge comes at a critical time. Funds raised during this annual fundraising campaign make it possible to provide vital programs and services throughout the following year. Emergency assistance, food programs, and youth programs in the community center are all supported by the Red Kettles.
"Each of these gifts will allow for The Salvation Army to continue to meet the needs of those throughout Southern Indiana who need help," explained Captain Strand. "As costs continue to rise, many are overwhelmed. We are honored to serve in such a generous community and, as a result, we can continue to provide rent and utility assistance, food and clothing, Christmas gifts, and so much more in 2025. Thank you for thinking of others and helping us to support so many!"
Last year, The Salvation Army of Southern Indiana provided over 35,000 meals to residents facing food insecurity in its six-county service area. The Angel Tree Christmas assistance program provided toys and clothing to over 3,000 children whose families were facing hardships. These and many other ministries are made possible each year through generous donations to Red Kettles.
Every donation given to The Salvation Army through the annual Red Kettle Campaign provides help and hope to those in need, and all gifts stay right here in the community where it is given. Visit SANewAlbany.org to learn more about how you can help ensure that The Salvation Army can continue to show Love Beyond Christmas in 2025.