CEDAR RAPIDS- It’s a sure sign the holidays are near. The Salvation Army’s Red Kettle Campaign kicks off Tuesday across Linn County. The campaign brings in nearly half the money the non-profit needs for the entire year. And those dollars couldn’t come at a better time.
Since 2008, the Salvation Army’s seen a steady increase in food help, utility assistance, and other services. Whether it was Monday’s free lunch, help with social services, or people signing up for Toys for Tots, the need is evident.
“It’s amazing, it’s a godsend I wouldn’t be able to give my son the Christmas that I do without the help they give,” said Salvation Army client Elisabeth Luye.
Elisabeth Luye is one of many Eastern Iowa families signing up for Toys for Tots Program through the Salvation Army. Christmas presents given to kids in need paid for largely by your donations.
“There is a great need for it and I think during the economic situation right now, I think it’s even more important,” said Kettle bell ringer Gwen Meyerhoff.
That’s why Gwen Meyerhoff spends the holiday season ringing a bell so you will fill-up a red kettle with donations.
“You just stand there and you’re supposed to ring and say good morning or good evening,” said Meyerhoff.
But if you don’t have any spare change, there’s a new way to donate. Starting Tuesday, you can text to give.
“You can text change lives as one word to 80888 and that will provide an opportunity to donate five dollars to our local Salvation Army,” said Salvation Army of Cedar Rapids Lt. Michael Sjogren.
The money helps support the Salvation Army’s growing need for many services.
“It’s a very critical time for us to be able to raise those funds to be able to serve this county,” said Sjogren.
And the money you text or drop in red kettles stays in Linn County to help families like Luye’s.
“I feel very thankful, very thankful,” Luye.
If you want to sign up for Toys for Tots or Holiday Food you have until Friday. If you want to volunteer to be a bell ringer or donate to Toys for Tots,
click here
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