The Salvation Army of Kinston sets out to “Rescue Christmas” due to immense impact of COVID-19
For the first time in 130 years, The Salvation Army is starting its annual holiday fundraising campaign early across the country in order to rescue Christmas. The funds raised through the organization’s iconic red kettles are at risk this year due to COVID-19 while requests for services are at an all-time high.
Based on the increase in services already provided in response to the pandemic, the organization could serve up to 155 percent more people in 2020 with Christmas assistance, including putting food on the table, paying bills, providing shelter and helping place gifts under the tree – assuming the resources are available. In Lenoir, Greene, and Duplin counties, the Salvation Army served more than 2,100 people last Christmas. If they see the same level of increased requests for service, that would mean 3,400 people who need their help this holiday season.
At the same time, due to the closing of retail stores, consumers carrying less cash and coins, and the decline in foot traffic, The Salvation Army could see up to a 50 percent decrease in funds raised nationally through the red kettles, which would limit their capacity to provide services for the most vulnerable. To put this in perspective, last year $126 million was raised nationally through about 30,000 red kettles. Locally, approximately $39,000 was raised at 15 kettle locations.
“The COVID-19 pandemic continues to bring challenges for many people,” said Captain Chris Lyles of The Salvation Army of Kinston. “The need for Salvation Army social service programming is essential in our community particularly as families continue to experience the financial and emotional strain that comes from dealing with this pandemic. We anticipate that the needs of our neighbors will continue to increase particularly as we get into the holiday season. This is why it is so critical to have the financial support of our community as we seek to “Rescue Christmas” for others.”
Since March, The Salvation Army of Kinston has provided more than 5,600 meals, 240 nights of safe shelter, and emotional and spiritual support to over 450 people in need. Now more than ever, they’re making it safer and simpler to donate in order to support the most vulnerable in our community.
The best way to ensure that these vital services continue is to enlist in Love’s Army with a sustaining monthly gift of $25 per month.
To help ensure the safety of bell ringers, donors and partners, The Salvation Army has adopted nationally mandated safety protocols.
Donate digitally with Apple Pay or Google Pay at any red kettle in Kinston, NC.
Ask Amazon Alexa to donate by saying, “Alexa, donate to The Salvation Army,” then specifying the amount.
Give any amount by texting “KETTLES” to 91999.
Donate physical gifts in bulk.
Adopt additional Angels to give hope and joy to kids and families in need through The Salvation Army’s Angel Tree program.
Every donation provides help and hope to those in need, and all gifts stay within the community in which they are given. Visit RescueChristmas.org to donate or learn more about how you can help The Salvation Army rescue Christmas this year. If you need services or know of someone in need, please visit www.salvationarmycarolinas.org/kinston to find a location near you.
