Salvation Army bell ringers back to help local families

The bell ringers are back for the Salvation Army’s annual Red Kettle Campaign.

The campaign officially began Nov. 18, but is now in full swing with 30 plus locations throughout Carson City, Douglas County and the surrounding communities.

The campaign goal for 2016 is $160,000, said Salvation Army Captain Mark Cyr. Bell ringers in 2015 raised $151,200.

“You would be amazed how a pocket full of change makes a difference as people put in a few cents here and there which adds up to thousands of dollars’ worth of services in our community.” Cyr said. “All of this change adds up to changed lives.”

Cyr, who’s in his 6th year coordinating the campaign, has been a bell ringer. He called the experience, “Fun and rewarding. You get to see a lot of people and hear their stories. Many will share of their experience with The Salvation Army decades ago.”

Cyr said the Red Kettle Campaign is the Salvation Army’s biggest fundraising event of the year. He said the money raised helps local families.

“It supports the local community,” he said. “All money raised funds essential services to help local families and individuals in need of assistance.”

A modern twist to the 100 plus year tradition: you can buy gift cards to be used as gifts for children this Christmas in dollar amounts of $10, $20, $50, etc. or if you have a dollar or two left on your gift card you can drop it in a Red Kettle. Those few dollars will add up and The Salvation Army will use them to provide a holiday for a neighbor in need.

People who need help from the Salvation Army or who want to volunteer to bell ring can call 775-887-9120

The Salvation Army serving Carson City and Douglas County provides services to more than 20,000 people each year helping with school supplies, emergency food and lodging, utilities, holiday assistance, Summer Day Camp, Before School Care, and Summer Camp. For more information, go to carsoncity.salvationarmy.org.