THE RED KETTLES RETURN
Salvation Army kicks off annual fundraiser in FD
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Starting on Saturday, the familiar sound of bells ringing in front of stores began in Fort Dodge as the annual Salvation Army Kettle Campaign kicked off.
It's a sound heard every year and a need that's always there, every year.
"The need is great this year," said Salvation Army Capt. Ali Welch. "This year the need is even greater."
This year's goal is $56,000.
The money goes to support The Salvation Army's local programs. One of those is simply feeding people in need.
"We have a hot lunch program Monday through Friday," she said. "We also serve breakfast on Sunday. We feed 50 to 100 during the noon meal each day."
There's also a food pantry.
"That's available Tuesday and Thursday. It's open from 9 a.m. to noon and then from 12:30 to 2:30," Welch said.
The Salvation Army also has a Goal Based Case Management Program.
"Let's say someone has the goal of getting a job," she said. "But first they need their driver's license. We help get them the resources they need to get the license. We break the goal down into smaller manageable steps."
The Angel Tree is another Christmas season program that needs help.
"We served 69 families last year and about 150 kids," Welch said. "We're accepting applications until Nov. 15."
The Angel Tree gifts vary depending on the age of the recipient, she said. A child might receive a toy; an older child, clothes; or a family, a food box.
So how can the community help?
Sign up to ring bells. Welch said there are plenty of spots. Individuals can sign up. Groups can sign up. Companies can sign up for a spot for their employees.
"There is a great need," said Welch.
Another way businesses can help is by hosting a kettle at their site. She said those have a goal of $2,000.
Salvation Army Board Member Greg Gilley, of Fort Dodge, was ringing bells Saturday at Hy-Vee.
He showed off his famous bell ringing style. He doesn't use his wrist; he flicks the bell with his fingers.
He had a big smile on his face as people put donations in his basket.
"It's like a calling," Gilley said. "I just like to serve."
The Kettle Campaign continues through Christmas Eve. Volunteers ring Tuesday through Saturday. Thanksgiving is a day off.
To sign up for a bell ringing time, go to SalvationArmyVol.org, and to apply for the Angel Tree go to SAangeltree.org
Volunteers can also call 515-576-1281 to sign up.