With 4 days left, Salvation Army Red Kettles falling short of fundraising goal
With Christmas Day nearing, the Salvation Army says it is finding itself falling behind the red kettle goal for 2023.
The annual Red Kettle Campaign is The Salvation Army’s primary fundraiser of the year, according to a news release, and every dollar donated locally supports programs that make a difference in the lives of people year-round in Amarillo.
“The Red Kettle Campaign is falling significantly behind as we work toward our 2023 goal of raising $130,000. We have currently raised a little more than $90,000 with only six days of bell ringing left and are praying the community will make a special effort to give to The Salvation Army in the remaining days of the season,” said Major Tex Ellis Jr., of The Salvation Army in the release issued Monday. “The current economy has made it difficult for many families who have been forced to prioritize rent, bills, rising food costs and other expenses in their budget. The Salvation Army is here year-round to provide a hand up to those struggling each month and the money raised through the red kettles is essential to these services.”
As of Wednesday, Ellis could not be reached for further comment.
The Salvation Army said its bells will continue to ring outside stores through Saturday, Dec. 23, and the organization is optimistic that with the community’s support it can still reach its fundraising goal.
“The generosity of our amazing community is always a blessing to witness. The Salvation Army is so grateful and every dollar helps!” Ellis said in the release. “The money raised in our Red Kettle Campaign stays right here in Amarillo. This means we can give provide a warm bed for someone experiencing homelessness, a hot meal for the individual who is hungry, keep the lights on for a family struggling to pay a utility bill and provide a pathway to self-sufficiency for struggling families in our community for months to come.”
Volunteers are also crucial to the success of the red kettle campaign; go to www.RegisterToRing.com and select the location, day and time you would like to ring.
“If you aren’t able to get outside and ring the bell in person, you can always give to our virtual kettle from the comfort of your own home! Go to www.salvationarmyamarillo.org and select 'Donate to Our Kettle.' Every gift helps,” Ellis stated.
If you’re interested in volunteering to ring the bell, or serving holiday meals, call 806-373-6631, visit them at 400 S Harrison St. or go to www.salvationarmyamarillo.org.
This article originally appeared on Amarillo Globe-News: Salvation Army Red Kettles falling short of fundraising goal
