How to go
What: Salvation Army Springfield Corps Christmas In July Red Kettle Campaign
Where: Kroger stores throughout Springfield
When: Saturdays in July, 10 a.m.-8 p.m.
More info: call 937-322-3434 or salvationarmy.org
The Salvation Army’s red kettles are as much a part of the winter holiday season as Christmas trees and Black Friday sales. But since community needs don’t stop after winter, neither does the pledge to help.
The Salvation Army Springfield Corps is celebrating Christmas in July with a special summer red kettle campaign throughout the month. From 10 a.m.-8 p.m. each Saturday in July, contributions will be collected at area Kroger stores.
Proceeds raised will go to help support the Salvation Army’s summer-based and youth-oriented programs, which have recently experienced an increase in participation.
The extreme winter, along with funding cuts that have affected many nonprofits, created an immediate need for further fund-raising, according to Capt. Justin Caldwell, Commanding Officer of the Springfield Corps.
“There’s an old quote from the Salvation Army – ‘Need knows no season,’ ” said Caldwell, who is just completing his first year in Springfield. “This is such a big deal for us. Things get tight in the summer, and we have a lot going on.”
The goal is to raise $10,000. Caldwell noted one of the important points of this campaign is an anonymous donor has pledged to match every dollar raised.
“Just to think somebody out there has your back that knows how great the need is, that’s something,” he said.
The campaign is using all volunteer groups to work the kettle campaign.
Among the activities the Springfield Corps sponsors are day camps for children with disabilities, summer camps, vacation bible school and many others.
“Every gift is appreciated,” Caldwell said.
For more information about the red kettle campaign or the Springfield Corps, call 937-322-3434.
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