The Salvation Army of Milwaukee County officially launched its 2026 Red Kettle Campaign on Friday, Nov. 13. The annual drive invites community members to contribute cash, volunteer time, or give online to support a range of essential services that help families and individuals throughout the year.
How the campaign helps neighbors
Funds raised by the Red Kettle Campaign support food assistance, winter coats, holiday meals and toys, shelter and housing assistance, and other programs that address basic needs. In 2025 the campaign collected more than $3.2 million, which was used to stock three local food pantries, provide winter clothing and holiday gifts, offer shelter and housing assistance to people experiencing homelessness, and supply backpacks, school supplies and disaster‑relief services across the county.
Message from Salvation Army leadership
“Give with Joy is more than a campaign slogan, it is the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of our neighbors,” said Major Beverly Gates, Area Commander for The Salvation Army of Milwaukee County. “Every gift helps provide shelter, meals, and hope to those facing hardship in our community. Together we can demonstrate compassion, inspire hope, and show that no one has to face life’s challenges alone.”
Ways to get involved
Residents can support the campaign in several ways:
- Drop change into the red kettles placed at churches, schools, businesses and other locations throughout Milwaukee County.
- Sign up to be a bell ringer and collect donations during the holiday season by visiting RegistertoRing.com.
- Volunteer with any of the Salvation Army’s holiday programs.
- Mail a donation to The Salvation Army, 11315 W. Watertown Plank Road, Wauwatosa, WI 53226.
- Give online through the Virtual Red Kettle platform.
The Salvation Army encourages anyone who can give, whether a few coins or a larger contribution, to join the effort and help ensure that families in Milwaukee County have food on the table, warm clothing for winter, and a sense of hope during the holiday season.
For more information about the Red Kettle Campaign, volunteers can contact the Salvation Army of Milwaukee County or visit their website.
Original reporting: FOX6 WITI – local news — read the source article.
