OK, so it’s hardy looking much like Christmas.
But the Columbus Salvation Army is kicking off its Red Kettle Campaign earlier than ever to get a jump on meeting the needs of those who are struggling next year.
The Salvation Army’s seasonal kickoff will be celebrated beginning at 5:30 p.m. Friday at Rural King, 2985 N. National Road in Columbus, according to ministry leaders. There will be singing and other festivities and small handouts for children.
That represents the earliest kickoff ever, said Capt. Amy Tompkins, the local leader of the Salvation Army.
The campaign will need the added time to reach its goal of $135,000, Tompkins said.
That’s partly because the heart of the giving season — the time between Black Friday and Christmas Eve — is shorter this year since Thanksgiving is not until Nov. 28, Tompkins said.
The Salvation Army is one of the agencies that provides holiday assistance to the underprivileged in the Columbus and Bartholomew County areas.
Campaign organizers are seeking more volunteer bell ringers via a website at registertoring.com.
Donations also can be made locally online at centralusa.salvationarmy.org/columbusin.
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To donate online to the Salvation Army kettle campaign, visit centralusa.salvationarmy.org/columbusin.
If you are interested in being a volunteer bell ringer, visit registertoring.com.
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