CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas — The familiar sound of bells ringing outside local stores signals the start of the Salvation Army's annual Red Kettle Campaign, a tradition that has been a hallmark of the holiday season since 1900.
Nathanael Doria, with the Salvation Army of the Coastal Bend, said the campaign’s goal is simple: raise funds to provide housing and support for individuals and families in need.
"This is the time where you will hear ringing of the bells in different stores and we are asking the public to donate," Doria said.
The funds raised during the Christmas season are crucial to sustaining the organization’s work throughout the year.
“All that work gets done during the year, but if we don't raise the funds during Christmas, it’s very hard at the beginning of the year,” Doria explained. "We are asking everybody to help us.”
Monica Barrera, the Salvation Army’s development manager, emphasized that no donation is too small.
"When you donate to the Salvation Army, 100% of that goes to helping families in need," Barrera said. "We’re focused on making sure every dollar is used to support those who need it most."
QR Codes offer a new way to Give Hope
The Salvation Army understands that these days, not everyone carries cash. That's why this year at every location, you'll find a QR code. Once scanned, you'll have step by step instructions on how to make a donation to their virtual kettle.
“It’s very simple, and it’s all done online. Even if you’re not at the kettle in person, you can make a donation from home," Barrera said.
While donating what you can is a big help for the salvation army to continue serving those who need it most, Doria says there is another way that people can give back.
“We need the public to also ring the bell for us,” Doria said. "It has been proven that if we have the red kettle without a person, nothing gets donated. We need everybody’s help to raise the funds we need."
The Salvation Army's Red Kettle campaign starts Saturday, Nov. 16 and ends on Dec. 24.
Making a donation to a red kettle isn't the only way you can help those who need it this Christmas. The Salvation Army's Angel Tree program allows you to adopt an angel, and buy them unwrapped clothes, shoes, and toys.
For more on how to adopt an angel or become a volunteer for the red kettle campaign, click here or call the Salvation Army of the Coastal Bend at 361-884-9497.