Salvation Army Christmas Kettle kick off

The 2019 Salvation Army Christmas Kettle Campaign will kick off Saturday, Nov. 30th and continue on each Saturday through Dec. 15th. Volunteers will be ringing bells and wishing everyone Merry Christmas at three locations: The Storyteller, Mack’s Market and Thermopolis Hardware and Mercantile. “The funds we raise are used right here in Hot Springs County,” said coordinator Rev. Ron Philips. “We pay a small fee to the Salvation Army, but that comes back to us in the form of equipment, advertising and bookkeeping.” Volunteers for the annual fundraiser come from numerous local churches, service organizations and school groups. “We have individuals sign up, and even whole families,” said Philips. One woman in her 90’s signs up every year. It’s been a tradition in her family for generations. “We always need more help. It takes a lot of volunteers. We ring bells from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. in three locations for four Saturdays. Volunteers can sign up to ring bells for as little as one hour.” Assistance from the Salvation Army is available through the local coordinator at The Help Center at Common Ground, 124 North 5th St. For more information, or to volunteer, call Rev. Philips at The Help Center, 864-3851, or at Holy Trinity Episcopal Church, 864-3629