2013 Red Kettle Campaign a Success

The Salvation Army's 2013 Kettle Campaign Raised Nearly $770,000

Campaign in Greater Cincinnati Comes Very Close to $775K Goal, Despite Shorter Campaign & Weather Issues

Cincinnati, OH (January 23, 2014) - The Salvation Army in Greater Cincinnati today announced it raised nearly $770,000 from its 2013 Kettle Campaign, against a goal of $775,000. The campaign is a major fundraising effort that has been undertaken annually at Christmastime for more than 120 years.

"We're deeply grateful to all those who supported the campaign," stated Major Tim Lyle, General Secretary at The Salvation Army. "The funds raised are an important part of our work to serve the local community all year long, as well as at Christmas. We are so thankful that the people in this community come through year-after-year with their donations to support our work."

The Salvation Army's annual Red Kettle Campaign is a major component of its annual funding initiatives. The funds collected are used throughout the year providing Emergency Assistance, After-school programs, and myriad services provided by The Salvation Army that serve those of all ages in the local community. "People appreciate that The Salvation Army uses their donations locally," stated Major Lyle. "They want to be a part of helping their neighbors (in Greater Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky), and through these donations to the kettles they're doing just that."

The Salvation Army extends its gratitude to every donor who put a contribution in the kettles - indeed, every nickel, quarter and dollar makes a difference. In addition, it appreciates the efforts of all the volunteers and staff who worked tirelessly in an effort to make the campaign such a great success. Hundreds of volunteers stepped forward to be bell-ringers, including first-time volunteers and others who have enjoyed ‘working a kettle' for many years.

Specific acknowledgements and expressions of appreciation are extended to the following organizations and individuals whose support ensured the success of the 2013 Kettle Campaign:

• Kroger, WalMart, Sam's Club and other retail partners, including Macy's, Walgreen's, Hobby Lobby, Big Lots, Michael's, Kmart, and Party Source, which provided the locations for kettle placements;
• The Cincinnati Bengals, who partnered with The Salvation Army for the "Kettle Kick-off" event in conjunction with the December 22^nd Bengals game. The event raised more than $7,750 towards the campaign goal;
• Gold Star Chili, Fifth-Third Bank, US Bank, Hilltop Resources and additional corporate and retail partners, which placed kettles on-site at their facilities in support of the Kettle Campaign;
• Dick Manteuffel, an Emeritus member of The Salvation Army Advisory Board, who along with his extensive group of bell-ringers, raised approximately $60,000 towards the campaign (the single largest collection at any one kettle location);
• Members of The Salvation Army Advisory Board, who secured corporate and individual sponsorships towards the campaign - in total, $23,000 was added to the outcome through their commitment and generosity;
• Through her efforts at the Forest Hills Kroger, Lucinda Gray, daughter of former Advisory Board member Gavin Gray, along with her volunteers, raised more than $23,000 toward the campaign; and
• Dr. O'dell Owens, president of Cincinnati State who rang the bell for three (3) days on Fountain Square. Special mention as well to the Gregory family and our friends at Montgomery Inn, who once-again joined Dr. Owens, distributing free, delicious pulled pork sandwiches to encourage donations. Through his continued dedication, and the support of his friends, Dr. Owens raised more than $2,000 towards this year's campaign.

"It's evident that it takes an army of volunteers and supporters to make the kettle campaign a success," said Matt Pearce, Development Director at The Salvation Army. "As well, the engagement of local corporate and business partners is such a blessing to us," added Mr. Pearce. "We simply can't fulfill our mission to meet human needs without all these individuals and companies stepping up and getting involved. We're so very thankful."

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