Salvation Army needs more helping hands for holiday season staple
While Butler County shoppers may spot bell ringers outside some local stores this holiday season, there aren’t nearly enough, Salvation Army officials say.
The nonprofit organization is asking for more people to pitch in to help it reach its Red Kettle campaign goal of $93,000.
According to Maj. Darlene Means, the Butler Salvation Army’s commanding officer, there is a need of about 10 to 15 more volunteers per day in her region.
“Since COVID and the rate of inflation, we have seen an increase in people not being able to make it from month to month for just basic necessities” Means said. “That is why our Red Kettle campaign is such a need here in Butler County,”
The Salvation Army Butler Worship and Service Center, led by Means, covers the Butler, Connoquenessing, East Butler, Herman, Lyndora, Prospect and Renfrew areas. Meanwhile, other units across Butler County include Saxonburg, Harrisville, Slippery Rock, Chicora and Evans City.
According to Marlin Boltz, Saxonburg Area Salvation Army service unit chairman, at least 60 more people are needed to sign up for one-hour slots in her region of Butler County.
“If we have someone at the stand, donations come in very well,” Boltz said.
Without those volunteers, Boltz said, the campaign is off to a slow start. The campaign’s fundraising goal is $93,000.
Overall, an increase in volunteers is needed, according to Nicole Harrell, director of marketing and public relations for the Salvation Army’s Western Pennsylvania Division.
Individual and group volunteers, such as churches and other organizations, can sign up for and rotate shifts throughout their time slot.
“On average, volunteer bell ringers raise $80 to $100 over the course of one two-hour Red Kettle shift, which can provide up to 200 meals to those in need,” Harrell said. “This is the most critical time of year for our organization.
“Donations to the Red Kettle campaign remain in the community where they are given and make it possible for The Salvation Army to deliver life-changing programs and services throughout the year.”
Boltz said the community is very supportive. Last year, the Saxonburg area raised $31,000. Of that amount, $16,000 was raised by the Red Kettle campaign.
Boltz said the money collected helps people pay rent and utilities, purchases coats, and buys Christmas gifts for 35 children.
“We are blessed with a community that is willing to contribute to the community, both with their financial donations and by taking a turn helping us raise money at the kettle,” he said.
There is one red kettle at Sprankle’s Neighborhood Market at 270 W. Water St. in Saxonburg. To volunteer for Saxonburg, please contact Boltz via email at marlinboltz@hotmail.com.
In the Butler area, red kettles are located at bealls, Boscov’s, the Walmart in Butler Township, Sam’s Club, Walgreens, Big Lots, the Walmart in Cranberry Township and the Giant Eagle in Seven Fields. To volunteer, call 724-287-5532.
