Red Kettle Campaign Falling Short

With two days left before Christmas Meridian’s Salvation Army, Red Kettle campaign may not reach its goal this year. The funds raised during the campaign go back into the community for programs that are created to change people’s lives.

The Salvation Army’s Red Kettle campaign is something that children and adults look forward to during the holiday season. It signifies the beginning of Christmas. This year, Meridian’s Red Kettle campaign is falling behind on reaching its’ goal.

“This year we have fewer bellringers, so our numbers are down”, said Captain Tamara Robb. “It’s 38% lower than last year. This is our big push for the next two and half days, Wednesday, Thursday, and half a day Friday to get the funding in so we can fund the programs for our community”

Jamie Nowell

For Jamie Nowell, a bell ringer this year, the Salvation Army holds a special place for her. She says the organization helped her at a time she needed them the most.

“The Salvation Army was giving out pastries in the boxes when COVID happened. I didn’t have any money to buy my kid a birthday cake and it just so happened that the captain gave me a birthday cake. Everybody got something different, but it just so happened that I got a birthday cake. It changed my whole perspective; it gave me hope”, said Jamie.

The goal this year is to raise $130,000. The money helps fund programs and projects that the salvation army host.

“This money is used to fund programs throughout the whole year. We are excited because we’ve just signed the closing papers on the new building for our community center. It’s going to help the little ones up to seniors”, explained Capt. Robb.

There are two days left until Christmas. You can find the red kettles outside of your local grocery stores, clothing stores, and you can even donate online at www.meridiankettle.org