The Salvation Army partners with local Sheriff’s Department to break Red Kettle record
The Salvation Army partners with local Sheriff's Department to break Red Kettle record
The Salvation Army of the Midlands partnered with the Richland County Sheriff’s Department (RCSD) to break a local record in the 2021 Red Kettle Campaign. This first-time partnership raised $1,473.36 in one day at a single store location, greatly helping to further the local work of The Salvation Army in the Columbia, S.C. area.
“Ringing the bells for The Salvation Army is a time-honored Christmas tradition that my staff and I were able to enjoy this past Christmas season,” said Richland County Sheriff Leon Lott. “We truly had a great time getting out, meeting, and talking with all the families, children, and people shopping. To see how many people give, nearly everyone gives, they want to give.”
Since 1906, community partners in the Midlands have helped to raise awareness and funds for The Salvation Army through the Red Kettle program. One initiative that benefits from the funds raised at the kettle is the Christmas Angel Tree program, which provided 2,758 children with new toys and clothing in 2021.
“I love ringing the bells for The Salvation Army,” said Major Maria Yturria, director of RCSD’s Professional Development office and Public Affairs. “A single hour-shift spent seeing all these families with small children – whose eyes light up when they hear the bells and see the red aprons – is an experience almost beyond my ability to describe. Best of all is the knowledge that every coin and dollar bill they put in the kettle is going towards making Christmas a little bit better for an equally deserving child who might not otherwise receive any gifts for Christmas.”
According to the Independent Sector, the national estimated value of each volunteer hour served is worth $28.54.
“Each volunteer that comes out to ring the bell for The Salvation Army’s Red Kettle Campaign not only contributes to its success, but the gift of their volunteer time is invaluable,” said Major Mark Craddock, area commander for The Salvation Army of the Midlands. “The Salvation Army is thankful to Sheriff Lott and his team for their willingness to ring the bell in support of our Red Kettle Campaign. This level of support from our community helped raise an overall kettle count of $240,705.72 this past Christmas season. These funds will help The Salvation Army to continue our mission in helping individuals and families in need all year long.”