The Salvation Army of Lafayette is kicking off its Red Kettle Campaign.
The money dropped in the kettles throughout the holiday season is part of the organization’s overall fundraising effort.
Major Jim Irvine says they have a goal of bringing in $185,500 from those collection sites.
“That’s a lot of dollars. That’s a lot of nickels and dimes. But the neat thing is – the change that goes into the kettles brings change out. It’s that change that helps change the lives of people right here in Tippecanoe County.”
The local Salvation Army hopes to raise $350,000 total for its holiday campaign, which includes mail solicitation.
Irvine says the organization is getting more calls for assistance from those in need.
“They walk into our building and they look like deer caught in the headlights. We’ll ask them how they’re doing and their eyes well up. It’s hard to admit the economy has been so hard, it’s hard for them to keep food on the table for their family.”
He says the money raised will help provide food, clothing and shelter to Hoosiers in and around Tippecanoe County.
“And we have our family emergency shelter. We’ve never had an empty night in the shelter. It’s a horrible thing to say, but on the other hand, it’s wonderful to know people who need help have a safe place to come.”
Salvation Army bell ringers are needed over the next month to operate the 20 red kettles throughout Greater Lafayette. Irvine says they need to staff 7,000 hours to meet this year’s fundraising goal. Volunteers can call (765) 742-0006, ext. 4 or sign up online HERE.
