Montgomery, Ala. – The Salvation Army’s local chapter marked the start of its annual Red Kettle campaign with a festive ceremony outside the Sam’s Club on Friday, November 13. Residents gathered for live music, hot chocolate and brief remarks from community leaders, underscoring the organization’s long‑standing role in supporting families throughout the year.
Goal and community impact
Organizers have set a fundraising target of $175,000 for this year’s campaign. Capt. Thomas Johnson, the commanding officer of the Montgomery Salvation Army, explained that the visible red kettle serves as a beacon of hope for families in need. “We are seeing people that are coming in to shop at Sam’s, and they’re stopping, listening, and dropping money in the kettle. They’re seeing the shield that means hope to families that needed it,” he said.
Volunteer shortage and call to action
The campaign faces a shortage of bellringers, the volunteers who tend the kettles during the holiday season. To address this, the Salvation Army is urging churches, civic groups and other organizations to step forward and fill the gap. “We need more hands to keep the kettle ringing and the message of hope alive,” Capt. Johnson added.
Community voices
Local donor Tyrone McFadden shared his support, noting the organization’s long‑term impact. “I think the Salvation Army has been doing a great job for years and I think more people need to get involved with the Salvation Army to continue to process and move forward their purpose,” he said while contributing to the kettle.
How to help
Anyone interested in donating or volunteering can visit the Salvation Army’s website at salvationarmy.org. The organization encourages residents to spread the word, donate generously and consider volunteering as bellringers to ensure the campaign’s success.
The Red Kettle campaign is a cornerstone of Montgomery’s holiday season, providing essential assistance to those facing hardship and reinforcing the community’s shared commitment to caring for one another.
Original reporting: Alabama News Network — read the source article.
