Elkhart Police and Fire Departments raise donations for Salvation Army red kettle campaign

ELKHART, Ind. - Elkhart fire and police departments competed for bragging rights this holiday season so see who can bring in the most donations for the Salvation Army. 

On Tuesday, December 5, both departments set out to Walmart on County Road 6, ringing bells for donations at their red kettle stands. 

For the fire department, who set up their bell ringing by the garden and home goods entrance, it's a fun time giving back to the community with a little healthy competition. 

It's always a friendly competition between the police and fire, our brothers and sisters across the street. […] It honestly offers some fun ribbing between the two departments," said the fire department's Division Chief of Operations, Dave Cushwa. 

Annually, the Salvation Army helps nearly 24 million Americans struggling with poverty.

Donations to the red kettle campaign go towards a wide range of programs, which aim to help those struggling with addiction, economic hardship and more overcome those hurdles and take back their lives.