Annual Campaign Now Underway; Runs Daily through December 24th
Cincinnati, OH (December 3, 2014) – The Salvation Army today announced that it has a fundraising goal of $800,000 for the 2014 Red Kettle Campaign. The annual campaign, which features the iconic red kettles and bell-ringers at area stores, has been a staple of The Salvation Army’s fundraising efforts since the 1890s. The local campaign started at area Kroger stores on November 14th, and will continue at Kroger, Walmart, Sam’s Club and other great retail partner locations through Christmas Eve, December 24th.
“We’re grateful to all those who make the annual Kettle Campaign a reality,” stated Major Larry Ashcraft, Divisional Commander at The Salvation Army. “This is a significant fundraising event in support of our programs, not just at Christmas but throughout the year. We rely upon many great retail partners, staff and bell-ringer volunteers who make it all possible.”
The annual Red Kettle Campaign will feature traditional kettles and bell-ringers at approximately 100 area retail outlets, such as Kroger, Walmart and Sam’s Club. Typically, bell-ringers are scheduled daily, Monday thru Saturday, from 10 am to 8 pm. In addition to these traditional retail partners, this year’s campaign includes ‘countertop kettles’ at area Gold Star Chili restaurants and Fifth-Third Bank branches throughout the region. Both Gold Star Chili and Fifth-Third Bank stepped up to consider ways that they and their customers could further support The Salvation Army’s mission through the Red Kettle Campaign.
“We’re so thankful for all those who come forward to support this major campaign,” stated Matt Pearce, Development Director at The Salvation Army. “We have many great local corporate partners, as well as volunteers, who make it possible. It’s among our largest funding initiatives for the whole year, so we’re reaching out to the whole community seeking support.” In addition to the kettles at area retailers, supporters are encouraged to donate and encourage others to donate via a 'virtual' kettle, at www.onlineredkettle.org. "The Online Red Kettle is a great way for anyone to get involved in supporting the campaign, even if they don't regularly visit any of the kettle locations," stated Director Pearce.
Those who would like to volunteer as a bell-ringer should contact Michelle Jones at 513-762-5641, or michelle.jones@use.salvationarmy.org Donations can be made to The Salvation Army by visiting the web site (www.salvationarmycincinnati.org), calling 1-800-SAL-ARMY or sending a check to 114 E. Central Parkway, Cincinnati, OH 45202.
# # #