Salvation Army rings the bells

The bells started ringing Tuesday when the Salvation Army of Superior kicked off its annual kettle campaign at 916 Hughitt Ave. The fundraiser is more important than ever this year, according to Maj. Rosemary Matson.

“This money supports us almost the whole year,” she said. The nickels, dimes, bills and checks dropped into kettles during the holiday season fund the Salvation Army’s food pantry and provide money for rent assistance, gas vouchers and other needs.

“If we don’t have the money, we have to say ‘No’ to those things,” Matson said.

The organization is already reeling from budget cuts. They lost approximately $7,000 of United Way funding and nearly $9,000 of FEMA funding this year, Matson said. In addition, no silent auction was set up to start the bell ringing season off this year. The annual auction usually brings in about $7,000, Matson said, but it was scrapped because the Salvation Army was focused on moving its thrift store.

The kettle campaign goal this year is $72,000, about $2,000 more than last year. To reach that goal, bell ringers are needed.

“People give when they see somebody at the kettle,” Matson said.

Volunteers can sign up for two-hour shifts during kettle hours — 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Saturday until Dec. 24. Kettles will be set up at all three Super One stores, Walgreens, Kmart and, after Thanksgiving, Walmart. Kettle driver George Brown said some bell ringers added their own flair last year, playing instruments or caroling. Salvation Army workers dressed up as Santa Claus and his elves. But, Matson said, just a friendly smile or a wave is just as effective. To volunteer for a shift ringing bells, call the Salvation Army at (715) 394-7001 and ask for Brown.

Sign-ups are currently being taken for Christmas food baskets and the Toys For Tots program at the Salvation Army, 916 Hughitt Ave. Residents can sign up for the holiday programs from 10 a.m. to noon and 1-3 p.m. Monday, Wednesday and Friday or 6-8 p.m. Tuesday and Thursday through Nov. 30. Sponsors for the Adopt-a-Family program are also being sought.

Before holiday gifts are given, the Salvation Army will host a Thanksgiving meal for the community. Everyone is invited to share food and fellowship at the meal, which takes place from 12:30-3 p.m. Nov. 24 at 916 Hughitt Ave.

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