Ringing to a close; Donors to match funds as Salvation Army targets big finish for kettle drive
Published 10:28 am Thursday, December 18, 2014
Salvation Army leaders are looking to ring their way to a big finish for the annual red kettle drive on its last weekend.
Several anonymous local businesses have agreed to match funds the Salvation Army receives on Friday and Saturday. The Masons of Austin have agreed to triple the funds raised at the Hy-Vee grocery store.
“We’re just hoping for an exciting finish to the kettle season,” Lt. David Amick said.
The red kettles finish at 3 p.m. on Christmas Eve, and Amick is hoping this year also meets its goals for the last weekend of the campaign. Amick said they currently stand at about $82,000 and are on par for their goal of $125,000. He has hopes that the donations will continue to come in strong these last few days.
Every dollar received stays local and helps the Salvation Army provide services to those in need.
Kettle donors are encouraged to snap photos of themselves showing a peace sign — what the Salvation Army is calling “a sign of northland generosity” — to post them to the Austin Salvation Army’s Facebook page.
“That’s just kind of a fun thing for the Salvation Army, just to see people getting out there,” Amick said.
The kettle campaign is on track so far this year. While toy donations were down, Amick said the kettles were up — essentially breaking even.
To volunteer, visit www.salvationarmynorth.org or speak with Salvation Army Volunteer Coordinator Kris Maier.
Vikings win challenge
The Salvation Army raised $618.76 during its Minnesota Vikings vs. Green Bay Packers challenge last weekend. Vikings fans won with $533.65.