The Salvation Army’s Kettle Campaign underway

The familiar sound of bells chiming can only mean that the holidays are upon us and the Salvation Army’s annual Kettle Campaign has begun.

On Wednesday, November 12, the popular charity kicked off its annual drive during a ceremony held outside Century 21 at Fifth Avenue and 86th Street. The purpose of the yearly campaign is to collect donations of any size that will go towards families in need in the local area during the season of giving.

“The need is here year-round and this is one way in which you can be involved in the mission of the Salvation Army to meet human need without discrimination,” said Lieutenant Joel Ashcraft. “Just by giving a few dollars at a kettle, you can support a neighbor who is hungry, a neighbor who can’t afford to give a toy to their child this holiday season. You can bring a neighbor joy this holiday season.”

The fundraiser will also allow the Salvation Army to run youth programs for the Bay Ridge community, including music, basketball and after school programs. It will also help fund additional emergency food pantries and senior programs.

Like last year, the Xaverian High School Pep Band led by Joe Loposky helped make the event festive with its holiday-themed performance.

The Kettle campaign will continue until Christmas Eve, December 24. The Salvation Army has also a new “Adopt a Family” initiative for Thanksgiving. Through this campaign, individuals can sponsor a family until Friday, December 5. For $15, participants can sponsor a family of two; sponsoring a family of four is $30; and the cost of sponsoring a family of five or more is $45.

For more information, visit www.onlineredkettle.org.