As spirits are high for the holiday season, The Salvation Army of Mansfield, OH iconic Red Kettle campaign is behind $50.000 with only 5 days left. This year’s goal for the fundraising drive is $110,000. The funds raised through the red kettles provide programs such as Christmas assistance, emergency food, housing and utility assistance, after school activities and programs for seniors, to highlight a few.
“We are asking for our community to help support our red kettle efforts this holiday season. 82 cents of every dollar donated to the kettles goes right back into the local community to provide immediate services and programs to those neighbors most in need.” Stated Captain Melissa Betts, Commanding Officer. “The kettle campaign kicks off the day after Thanksgiving every year. Sadly, with Thanksgiving being later in the month this year, our kettle campaign started 5 days later than in most years. This has certainly impacted donations. However, we are hopeful that our generous community members will take a moment to make a gift to help their neighbors in need.” Betts continued.
On December 20th, The Salvation Army is hosting a $20 kettle challenge, asking community members to donate a $20 bill or check and help close out the kettle season in big and meaningful way. The Salvation Army recently received a video of support from Ohio Governor, Mike DeWine & his wife, Fran, to help ramp up excitement amongst Ohioans for the $20 on Dec. 20th event!
Link to Video of Support from Ohio Governor Mike DeWine: https://www.dropbox.com/s/c8kd0bawa6x0zpc/Salvation%20Army%20Challenge%20Message.mp4?dl=0
“A $20 donation to our kettles on December 20th, will be a deliberate and trackable act of kindness and compassion for our neighbors in need,” said, Captain Betts. “We are grateful for Governor DeWine’s support of this event! $20 can provide 10 nutritious meals. There is such a strong need in our community, especially among children, who through no fault of their own, are hungry and without winter clothing. We see it every day and rely on the generosity of our community to come out and support the Red Kettle effort,” continued, Betts.
A new addition to the Red Kettle campaign, for the first time in 128 years, individuals will be able to use Apple Pay/Google Pay at the kettles. “So many people do not carry cash on them nowadays. We are excited to have a new way to engage with more individuals. It is a great piece of technology that is simple and easy to use!” said
Captain Betts. The new feature will allow anyone with a smartphone to “bump” the Apple Pay and Google Pay icon, or scan a QR code with their camera, to make a donation.
For those looking to support The Salvation Army, there are a few options available:
● Go Online: SalvationArmyOhio.org for online donations
● Text: MansfieldOH to 41444 to donate using a smart phone
● Call: 1-800-Sal-Army
● Mail: Donate directly to The Salvation Army at 47 S. Main St. Mansfield, OH 44902
To make a donation to assist The Salvation Army of Mansfield in serving families this holiday season, volunteer to stand at a kettle or for more information, call 419-525-2912 or visit www.SalvationArmyOhio.org.