Elkhart Salvation Army in need of Red Kettle ringers
ELKHART, Ind.-The weather outside is a reminder that the holidays are quickly approaching. Today, you’ll start hearing Christmas bells ringing across Elkhart County. The Salvation Army is kicking off its annual Red Kettle Drive.
Bell ringers will be out from now until December 23rd in various locations i.e., Concord Mall, Kroger, Walmart and Walgreens.
The organization is looking for any men, women, children or families who are willing to volunteer.
“They can help provide a roof over somebody’s head and of course the toys and food that we will be giving out,” said Shawn DeBaar, Lieutenant of the Elkhart Salvation Army.
Each shift is 2 hours and volunteers can sign up as many times as they’d like.
All proceeds go toward the Salvation Army’s Christmas Assistance Program and their overall income.
Last year’s red kettles collected more than $100,000. They’d like to break $500,000 this year.
A kick-off celebration of the Red Kettle Drive will take place at the Concord Mall Friday morning at 10:00. Mayor Tim Neese will also make an appearance.
To sign up as a bell ringer, click HERE.
For this year’s Christmas Assistance Program, the organization will help around 2,000 people. The Salvation Army is still looking for folks to adopt or sponsor one of the families in need.
“A lot of those that do adopt families from us have kind of made it a family tradition,” DeBaar said. “Not only do they say we have a Christmas for our own family, but we make sure Christmas happens for another family.”
Anyone who wants to adopt a family can call the Elkhart Salvation Army or visit in person at their 300 N. Main Street location. Once you are signed up, you will be given the name of your adopted family members and a Christmas wish list. You can find more information HERE.