PHILADELPHIA — The ringing of a Salvation Army Red Kettle bell brings to mind a cheerful holiday tradition, but for a family living paycheck to paycheck, it’s the sound of a warm meal on the table. For a child in need, it’s the opportunity to thrive in an after-school program or summer camp. For a disaster survivor, it’s hope in the aftermath of devastation.
This holiday season, every hour spent by a volunteer ringing the bell will transform street-corner moments of generosity into life-changing support for neighbors in need. But to make this happen, The Salvation Army Eastern Pennsylvania and Delaware Division needs volunteers to staff the Red Kettles, that are now appearing in downtowns, shopping centers and other locations around the region.
All Red Kettle donations stay within the community where they are received, supporting programs and services year-round. Last year’s Divisional Red Kettle Campaign raised $3,294,995.23, which helped provide 7,569,988 meals, house 307,361 individuals and distribute 181,512 toys to children during the holiday season.
“Volunteers are the driving force behind our Red Kettle Campaign,” said Lt. Colonel Larry Ashcraft, divisional commander of The Salvation Army Eastern Pennsylvania and Delaware Division. “On average, bell ringers help raise about $90 per hour at red kettles. It’s an easy, yet meaningful way for anyone to make an impact in their community, especially for those who may not have the means to give financially.”
The Salvation Army’s Red Kettle Campaign is a holiday tradition dating to 1891 when Capt. Joseph McFee, inspired by a practice he observed during his sailor days, placed an iron pot at the Oakland Ferry Landing in San Francisco. His goal was to collect enough donations to feed 1,000 of the city’s poorest residents on Christmas Day. By 1895, kettles were in use at 30 locations, and by 1897, they had expanded to the East Coast, providing 150,000 Christmas dinners. The tradition evolved in 1900 when 16-year-old Salvation Army Officer Cadet Amelia Kunkle began ringing a bell to draw attention to her kettle in New York City. Her innovation quickly caught on, and bell ringing has since become a cherished symbol of Christmas generosity.
Individuals, families, churches, organizations and others looking to participate in the bell-ringing tradition are eligible to volunteer. Those unable to volunteer but interested in supporting a local Salvation Army can donate online to a Virtual Red Kettle or text KETTLE to 31333.
About The Salvation Army
The Salvation Army of Eastern Pennsylvania and Delaware is a faith-based, comprehensive human service organization whose programs help individuals, families and whole communities lead healthier, safer and more productive lives. Since 1879, The Army has held a record of accomplishment stemming from its holistic approach to providing for the needs of the whole individual — physically, emotionally, economically and spiritually. The Army’s programming serves every zip code through 43 community centers and a network of volunteers throughout Eastern Pennsylvania, Philadelphia and Delaware. Programs and services historically include: shelter, hot meals, counseling, early childhood development, recreational opportunities, music programs, after-school arts and educational programs, job training, activities for older adults, spiritual development, and drug rehabilitation.
For more information, visit www.SalvationArmyPendel.org
