The Ohio Valley air soon will be filled with the familiar holiday sound of ringing bells, as the Salvation Army’s Red Kettle season returns. Throughout the region, people will be standing beside those kettles, bells clanging, bringing attention to the Salvation Army’s mission of helping those who are in greatest need of it.

That need has only increased this year. At this week’s Red Kettle Kickoff Luncheon, Salvation Army Lt. John Lawrence said that, because of rising costs and a government shutdown that suspended SNAP fund distributions, his organization has served four times as many people than usual.

And Lawrence said that, even with Congress voting Wednesday to end the shutdown, it will take time before those in need will receive those back benefits.

Until then, it will be up to organizations like the Salvation Army to fill the gap, and they could use the community’s help when doing it.

That help doesn’t have to be huge. Spare change dropped in those red buckets start adding up over the holiday season. If everyone gave just a little, it could become a whole lot.

The Ohio Valley has long been known for its generosity and willingness to help its neighbors. West Virginia University Athletic Director Wren Baker, the guest speaker at the luncheon, made it a point to mention that to the crowd at the White Palace.

“When I come here, this community is making an effort to make life better for those that are the least among us that need help,” he said. “I think of all the communities we visit – and there are a lot of great communities across the state – but this is one that just seems like it’s always doing something to help people in the community.”

By digging into our pockets this holiday season, we can reinforce that image and make sure those in need have what they need this holiday season.