Salvation Army Nearly Reaches Red Kettle Fundraising Goals
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WHEELING - The Salvation Army of Wheeling came in just under its $100,000 goal for Red Kettle collections during this past holiday season.
The total kettle income including sponsorships, according to Salvation Army Lt. John Lawrence, was $99,861.65. That's just $138.35 short of the organization's goal, yet remains a 13% increase from 2022's numbers.
"This represents a tremendous effort from our volunteers, soldiers, staff, and those who gave so generously to The Salvation Army throughout the Christmas season," Lawrence said. "We simply couldn't do it without so many people coming out and volunteering their time and resources."
Lawrence noted the Salvation Army saw a 67% increase in volunteers this season. The organization believes that it will be able to reach its goal of 100% volunteer ringers beginning with the 2024 Red Kettle campaign.
Throughout the holiday season, the Salvation Army organized competitions among groups, organizations and schools to have members participate as bell ringers. Those collecting the most money received a prize.
The winners of this year's kettle competitions were for civic organizations, the Wheeling Rotary; the "Battle of the Badges" among first responders, the Ohio County Sheriff's Department; mascot challenge, West Liberty University; and among high schools, John Marshall High School
The Salvation Army's annual fundraising campaign began Nov.18, when the Salvation Army's signature red kettles and bell ringers began appearing outside stores around the community. The Red Kettle season ended Dec. 23.
The Salvation Army in Wheeling serves Ohio, Marshall, Wetzel, and Tyler Counties.
Throughout the year the Army provides shelter to the unhoused, a food pantry, a community thrift store, daily meals, clothing vouchers, emergency disaster services, youth programs and more.
"Your holiday giving creates change every day at The Salvation Army," Lawrence said. "When a family comes to us because they cannot afford to put food on the table, it's your willingness to volunteer and donate that makes it possible for us to hand them a food box.
"When a mother needs help paying the utility bill to keep the lights on, your generosity means that we can pay that bill," he added. "And when a child climbs onto the bus headed to summer camp for the first time, your support helps provide a week that child will never forget. Thank you on behalf of the countless people you will never meet that will come to The Salvation Army this year with nowhere else to turn. Your support means we will be there to share help, hope and love, in all situations."
There are many ongoing opportunities to volunteer and get involved at The Salvation Army during the year. Those interested can contact the Salvation Army at 304-233-4400, visit the organization's headquarters at 140 16th St. in Wheeling, or go to wheeling.salvationarmypotomac.org to find out how to support The Salvation Army year-round.