Salvation Army kicks off their annual Red Kettle Campaign

FARGO, N.D. (KVRR) — Bells will be ringing across the Fargo-Moorhead area as the Salvation Army has kicked off the start of the annual Red Kettle Campaign. And this year’s goal is to raise $850,000.

“It’s important to understand that bell ringers are an integral part of our fundraising campaign. Christmas is our largest event for fundraising. So, over $850,000, some of our $400,000 will come directly through the bells,” said Major Abe Tamayo.

This season is even more crucial for raising funds, according to Major Abe Tamayo. Over the last year, the homeless population and the need for support have grown within the community.

“As the poverty and inflation issues continue, more and more people are in need. We’re seeing different demographics, more senior citizens coming our way, we’re seeing teenagers coming our way, families coming our direction, and so we just want to be in place and able to serve those communities as needed, and the Salvation Army will always be there for them,” said Tamayo.

City commissioner Denise Kolpack was named this year’s chairperson for the Red Kettle season. And she says that by taking part in helping the community is a way to help support the mission.

“I think the challenges are real. I mean, we’ve just gone through some real food insecurity at a higher level than we’ve seen before, and I think the answer is community members to step up, to give time, but to work on real solutions to find long-term solutions to some of these challenges that we’re facing as a community,” said Denise Kolpack, City Commissioner.

Red Kettles will be located across the metro at your local grocery stores.