Salvation Army needs volunteers for kettle campaign

By TAYLOR BROWN

tbrown@yourmvi.com

The Salvation Army is on a mission to rescue Christmas.

The Salvation Army in Monessen kicked off its Red Kettle Campaign early this year with a virtual 5K fun run in October to give the organization a head start on its fundraising goal. 

The event raised $10,000, but with an increased need because of the pandemic, Capt. Sue Thwaite said the campaign is more important than ever before.

Not only has COVID-19 impacted local families, it has changed the way the Salvation Army raises money and has put the organization in a desperate position for volunteers to help get the job done. 

The drive usually starts Nov. 1 and builds momentum leading up to Thanksgiving.

Each year, volunteers with seasonal bells stand alongside the famous red kettles at locations across the Valley to raise money for programs provided by the Salvation Army to aid local families. 

Bell ringers started at Foodland in Monessen last week and others will be stationed from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Mondays through Saturdays at Walmart, Giant Eagle and Shop N’ Save in Rostraver Township before Thanksgiving — if volunteers can be found to man the kettles.

Unlike past years, only one volunteer is permitted per kettle this season, which has made scheduling difficult.

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