With a goal of $300,000 the Red Kettle Campaign in Sioux Falls is halfway to its goal having raised $160,000.
The sound of a ringing bell is one we know very well, some may even say too well. But for those who work at the Salvation Army, that sound means help is on the way for those in need.
"There are a lot of people out there that are in need and that aren't as fortunate as other people. Every little bit helps," bell ringer Adam Bourdeau said.
Even just spare pocket change can add up quickly. For Bourdeau, who is in his first year of bell ringing, knowing what a few cents can do for a person in need is what helps him withstand the elements.
"I just think of the money that is going to help the people that need it. The cold it doesn't really bother me. It's the fact that I'm actually helping someone out," Bourdeau said.
The Salvation Army hopes the sound rings as a reminder for the great need across Sioux Falls
"I'm just hoping that they will have the caring spirit to give and help other families out," Bourdeau said.
With two weeks left to go, officials with the Salvation Army are confident about the giving spirit in the community.
"The caliber of giving seems to be up and the people are just generous as they walk by the kettle. They put in the coins they have in their pockets, sometimes dollar bills, and some people are writing checks. So everybody is helping," Major Tom Riggs with the Salvation Army said.
So whether it's spare change or a few dollars, Major Riggs hopes you think of it as helping a friend or neighbor.
"They should throw in their extra change because they want to reach out to their neighbor; they want to reach out to that person who is in need," Riggs said.
The bell ringers will be out until 3 p.m. Christmas Eve. All of the money raised will stay with the Salvation Army in Sioux Falls.
On Saturday, December 15, the Red Kettle Campaign will hold its third annual $20 Challenge. For every $20 bill placed in a red kettle, several local donors, who wish to remain anonymous, will replace it with a $100 bill. The donors have pledged more than $20,000 in an effort to help raise $35,000.
Comments