To The Editor:
The Salvation Army’s iconic red kettles will begin appearing at retailers, malls and grocery stores beginning on Friday, November 18th. Donations collected from these kettles during the holiday season are used for food, warm clothing and small toys and gifts at Christmas. However, they are also a major part of The Salvation Army’s operating budget for programs and services all throughout the year. Youth and senior programs, emergency housing and prescription assistance, emergency disaster services, shelters, food pantries and after-school programs are just examples of how red kettle donations are used.
Volunteer kettle workers provide critical help during 4-hour shifts. Individuals, service organizations, churches, school and corporate groups are all welcome to participate and “man” a kettle this holiday season. Please volunteer your time and ring a bell to help those less fortunate.
Or, you can also volunteer to help with angel trees, food drives and other holiday programs. Call Judith Anderson, The Salvation Army’s Volunteer Coordinator at NJ Divisional Headquarters, 908-851-8236 or reach her via email: judith.anderson@use.salvationarmy.org.
Tricia Pellegrini
Public and Community Relations
Salvation Army
Union
