The Salvation Army of Painesville has Fewer Kettles to Meet Record High Needs
Painesville, OH (December 11th, 2020) – The needs have never been greater this year and The Salvation Army of Painesville has seen this firsthand throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. With local needs for their services increasing over 20% since March, The Salvation Army is depending on their annual holiday fundraising campaign, including their red kettles, to keep their services going. The Salvation Army of Painesville kettle campaign is behind $140,000 with only two weeks left. “Where we have kettles, we are seeing good donations from the community. However, we simply don’t have enough folks to staff all of our kettle locations. Health concerns around COVID have drastically reduced our ability to have bell ringers at each of our retail partners.” stated Major John Riley, Commanding Officer, The Salvation Army of Painesville. This year’s goal for the fundraising drive is $200,000. The funds raised through the red kettles provide programs such as Christmas assistance, emergency food, housing and utility assistance, after school activities and programs for seniors, to highlight a few.
With safety a top priority at the kettles this holiday season, The Salvation Army will be offering contactless giving at the Red Kettles. Individuals will be able to use Apple Pay and Google Pay at the kettles. “So many people do not carry cash on them nowadays. We are excited to have a way to engage with more individuals. It is a great piece of technology that is simple and easy to use!” said Major Riley. The new feature will allow anyone with a smartphone to “bump” the Apple Pay and Google Pay icon or scan a QR code with their camera to make a donation. “This year’s kettle campaign also includes a virtual online kettle for those that want to support our efforts from the safety and comfort of their home.” continued Major Riley.
For those looking to support The Salvation Army in helping those in need, there are a few options available:
- Volunteer to be a Bell Ringer at SalvationArmyOhio.Org
- Donate Online: http://salarmy.us/painesvilleredkettle
- Call: 1-800-Sal-Army
- Mail: Donate directly to The Salvation Army at 69 Pearl Street Painesville, OH 44077
For more information about The Salvation Army of Painesville or to request services this holiday season, call 440.354.3774 or visit www.SalvationArmyOhio.org.
The Salvation Army’s Mission
The Salvation Army, an international movement, is an evangelical part of the universal Christian church. Its message is based on the Bible. Its ministry is motivated by the love of God. Its mission is to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs in His name without discrimination. Nearly 30 million Americans receive assistance from The Salvation Army each year through the broadest array of social services that range from providing food for the hungry, relief for disaster victims, assistance for the disabled, and outreach programs for youth.