September 14, 2020 – Due to the impact of COVID-19, The Salvation Army is beginning its Red Kettle Campaign earlier than ever before in order to help those in our community. The Salvation Army is projecting that they can serve up to 50% more people this year compared to last year. Decatur Corps Officer, Lt. Kenesa Debela said, “To help ensure that no one goes without assistance during the holidays, we are launching our National “Rescue Christmas” Campaign as an effort to raise public awareness of the profound need that we are seeing”. Decatur Corps Officer Lt. Shanell Debela continued, “The funds raised during the 2020 Red Kettle Campaign will help place presents under the tree, put food on the table, help to pay bills, and provide shelter for those without a home”.
The Salvation Army is expecting fewer holiday shoppers at stores this year due to the pandemic, leading them to believe contributions to Red Kettles may go down during a time when there is more demand for assistance. The Decatur Salvation Army relies on nearly $500,000 annually in order to fund its programs during Christmas. Across the nation, 82 cents per dollar donated to The Salvation Army goes to funding initiatives of the Salvation Army and remains in the community in which it was donated.
If you would like to volunteer with The Salvation Army, contact Kyle Karsten at Kyle.Karsten@usc.saltavionarmy.org.
