Salvation Army Red Kettles Running Behind Goal in Ohio County
Capt. Mark VanMeter of the Salvation Army in Wheeling provides an update on this year's red kettle drive efforts.
Photo by Joselyn King
Capt. Mark VanMeter of the Salvation Army in Wheeling provides an update on this year's red kettle drive efforts.
Photo by Joselyn King
Capt. Mark VanMeter of the Salvation Army in Wheeling provides an update on this year's red kettle drive efforts.
Photo by Joselyn King
Capt. Mark VanMeter of the Salvation Army in Wheeling provides an update on this year's red kettle drive efforts.
Photo by Joselyn KingTrending
WHEELING - In today's society, many people go "cashless" without any paper money or coins - and that might be one reason why donations to Salvation Army red kettles are down so far this holiday season in Ohio County, suspects Capt. Mark VanMeter of the Salvation Army in Wheeling.
But modern technology does provide new ways to contribute, he added.
VanMeter provided an update Friday on the red kettle drive with numbers current as to the start of the week.
He reported about $36,000 had been collected so far in the kettles, compared to $42,000 at the same point last year. The Salvation Army hopes to raise $90,000 this season, and bellringers will be out until 3 p.m. on Christmas Eve, according to VanMeter.
"The issue is that many people just don't carry cash anymore," he said.
But the Salvation Army has made adjustments for that in 2022.
Those coming to the kettles will see a QR code for the kettle posted on a sign there. The donor can just take their smartphone, scan the QR code, and go directly to the Salvation Army site to contribute.
And the public doesn't even have to venture out of their home if they wish to contribute. The Salvation Army offers a virtual kettle option for those wanting to contribute online.
The web address for that kettle is Redkettlechallange.org, and those donating will be asked to enter a zip code to make certain the money is directed to Ohio County.
"Those donations are secure," VanMeter said. "We have secure servers."
The Salvation Army uses the money collected year-round to provide assistance with housing, utilities and other necessities for those struggling to afford them.
The funds also are used to bring Christmas to many during the holiday season, VanMeter continued.
"People see us as an organization in the community, but they don't always know why we are important," VanMeter said.
The names of 450 children were taken from the Salvation Army's "Angel Tree" this year by those intending to go out shopping and fill the Christmas list of things each wants this holiday season.
VanMeter said the toys and items purchased should be brought back to the Salvation Army in Wheeling this weekend.
The Salvation Army hopes to distribute those items on Dec. 19 at its Eoff Street facility. Similar distributions will take place in Marshall and Wetzel counties on Dec. 20.
This weekend, the public will see well-known local mascots ringing bells in the "Battle of the Mascots" competition to see who can raise the most for the Salvation Army in Wheeling. Participants include Spike from the Wheeling Nailers, the Salvation Army's own Major Sal, Justice the Legal Beagle from Bordas and Bordas, and the superhero Beast Man.
On Dec. 17, the Salvation Army in Wheeling will sponsor the "Battle of the Badges," featuring members of local law enforcement, fire and EMS crews competing for donations.