Waukesha, Wis. – The familiar jingle of Red Kettle bell‑ringers rang out Friday as the Salvation Army kicked off its annual Christmas fundraising drive. Organizers set an ambitious $1 million target to fund emergency shelter, food assistance, rent and utility aid for the county’s most vulnerable families.
Volunteer needs and rising expenses
Volunteer coordinators say they still need more hands to cover bell‑ringing shifts at local retailers, including Pick ’n Save, Fleet Farm, Hobby Lobby and JCPenney. “We are a generous Waukesha community, but we need volunteers to keep the kettle ringing,” said Major Victor Stasiuc, Salvation Army of Waukesha County.
Emergency Disaster Services Coordinator Mike Neiman highlighted a new budgeting challenge: diesel prices have surged above $6 per gallon, straining the organization’s mobile canteen and disaster‑response fleet. “Diesel costs are the biggest thing hurting us right now,” Neiman explained.
Increasing demand for services
The Salvation Army reports that the number of men staying in its shelter this year has already exceeded the total for all of 2025, underscoring growing need. Social Services Director Matricia Patterson added, “We are serving those in the community who are most vulnerable – those struggling for safety, a meal, or a warm place during winter.”
Fund‑raising goals and past success
Last year the organization reached its $350,000 kettle goal and nearly $1 million overall, marking the first time in almost three years it met its Christmas target. This year’s $1 million goal aims to expand assistance across Waukesha County.
Donors are asked to write “Waukesha Salvation Army” on checks to ensure contributions stay local. The campaign will run through Christmas Eve, with bell‑ringers appearing at stores throughout the county.
How the community can help
Residents can support the drive by volunteering for a shift, donating directly to the Red Kettle, or writing a check with the proper designation. The Salvation Army emphasizes that every contribution, large or small, helps keep families safe and fed during the holiday season.
For more information on volunteer schedules or to make a donation, visit the Salvation Army of Waukesha County website or contact the local office.
Original reporting: FOX6 WITI – local news — read the source article.
