Photo: Tim Boyle / Getty Images News / Getty Images
The Salvation Army has officially launched its annual red kettle campaign in Staunton. Corps Officer Mark Gates says donation kettles will be stationed outside eight Food Lion stores across Staunton and Fishersville, along with the Walmart on Richmond Avenue.
Volunteers will be ringing bells from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., and while around 25 people have already signed up, Gates says they are hoping for even more community participation. The organization set a $75,000 fundraising goal, and every dollar collected in Staunton stays local, supporting families in Staunton and western Augusta County.
Gates says the campaign is essential to covering expenses for Christmas assistance programs, helping the Salvation Army provide food, gifts, and support to families during the holiday season.
Residents interested in volunteering as bell ringers can find additional information online.
SOURCE: WHSV3