The Salvation Army of Milwaukee County has launched its annual Red Kettle Christmas Campaign with a goal to raise $2.7 million this year to sustain its Toy Shop, Christmas Family Feast, emergency shelter, medical, food pantries and meals to the homeless and care to veterans.
“The economy continues to make it a rough year for many families and we’ve seen first hand a significantly increased number of people coming to us for help,” said Major Roger Ross, Salvation Army Milwaukee County commander. “It’s especially hard during the Thanksgiving and Christmas season, with people still losing their jobs, their homes and not knowing how they will provide for their families. That’s when The Salvation Army steps in to help and give hope. But, to keep pace with the needs of area families we must rely on generous people in our community to open their hearts with a donation to help their neighbors.”
The Salvation Army tradition of bell ringing, started in 1891 by Captain Joseph McFee, had humble beginnings with a simple cooking pot, and has now spread nationwide to become what is commonly known as the “Red Kettle.”
“Our Red Kettles hold folding money and checks, as well as coins,” Ross said.
To offer your place of business as a bell ringing site or to volunteer yourself or your employees to ring bells, call (414) 302-4300 or visit www.SAmilwaukee.org.
