MOUNT VERNON — The Salvation Army kicked off its annual red kettle campaign on Nov. 19. This year, the Army is issuing a rallying cry for Americans to “Love Beyond.”
The organization’s message is simply that when we love beyond hunger, love beyond shelter, and love beyond disasters, we can provide hope and help for millions who need it. Love Beyond is also a symbol of the resources and programs that 30 million Americans rely on year-round when they turn to the nation’s largest private provider of social services for assistance.
“We all share the need to be loved,” said Capt. Christine Moretz. “This message is a reminder about the financial struggles and uphill battles that millions of Americans continue to face to escape poverty and the impact that a small act of love can have for someone in need. The continued support of the public helps The Salvation Army love and serve those who are lost, hungry, and hurting — all year long.
“Our mission remains to share God’s love and meet human need in His name without discrimination. We only do this with the army alongside the Army. Thank you for helping us help others,” she added.
In 2022, The Salvation Army has provided 1,470 nights of shelter, 23,898 meals, and $33,701.49 in financial assistance to individuals and families. The Salvation Army provides year-round services to people who are facing poverty, domestic abuse, addiction, isolation, and more.
The best way to ensure services continue for those in need is to visit SalvationarmyUSA.org and sign up for a sustaining gift of $25 per month, which could help a family overcome the risks of poverty and eviction.
Bell ringers will be out thru Dec. 24 at area businesses. To help ensure the safety of bell ringers, donors and partners, The Salvation Army has adopted nationally mandated safety protocols.
Community members can contribute in several ways:
–Donate digitally with Apple Pay or Google Pay at any red kettle in Ohio.
–Ask Amazon Alexa to donate by saying, “Alexa, donate to The Salvation Army,” then specifying the amount.
–Give any amount by texting “MTVKETTLE” to 41444.
–Donate physical gifts in bulk.
Learn more about Love Beyond by visiting The Salvation Army’s website.
The Salvation Army annually helps more than 30 million Americans overcome poverty, addiction, and economic hardships through a range of social services. By providing food for the hungry, emergency relief for disaster survivors, rehabilitation for those suffering from drug and alcohol abuse, and clothing and shelter for people in need, The Salvation Army is doing the most good at over 7,000 centers of operation around the country. In 2021, The Salvation Army was ranked No. 2 on the list of “America’s Favorite Charities” by The Chronicle of Philanthropy. For more information, visit SalvationArmyUSA.org. Follow us on Twitter @SalvationArmyUS and #DoingTheMostGood.
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