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Volunteers sought for kettle campaign |
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Wednesday, 18 November 2009 |
By GWEN SISSON
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It is getting to be that time of year again — a time when the sound of bells ringing outside of Wal-Mart and Kroger spark a desire to empty pockets to help the needy in this community.
And the Salvation Army needs additional volunteers to man the kettles.
Debra Austin, volunteer coordinator for the Christmas Red Kettle Drive, said several spots remain for this year’s drive.
Volunteer slots are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
The Kettle Drive Campaign will kick off Nov. 27 with a special ceremony at 9 a.m. at the Wal-Mart Supercenter in Starkville, featuring guest “ringers” Mississippi State University Head Football Coach Dan Mullen and Starkville Mayor Parker Wiseman to get the campaign started.
The Christmas Red Kettle Campaign will begin “Black Friday” and will continue through Christmas Eve, running between the hours of 9 a.m. and 7 p.m. Monday to Saturday.
There are two kettles at the entrances at Wal-Mart and one kettle at Kroger.
Austin said more locations will be added for the Kettle Campaign if there is a large volunteer response.
Austin said last year, the Starkville Salvation Army had the most successful campaign in its history, receiving over $31,000 in donations.
Salvation Army Director B.J. Andol said volunteers are needed this year, because more area residents are in need this year.
Andol said the local Salvation Army serves as a local food pantry.
The store provides clothing to victims of fire or disaster in the area.
And the organization has a program to help needy families pay their electric and propane bills throughout the winter.
The agency sends children to Camp Hidden Lake in Lexington, and during the Christmas season, they have a community Angel Tree for needy families.
Andol said this year, the number of angels have doubled on the Angel Tree, showing the growing need in the community.
At this point, almost half of the time slots are available for volunteering in the Christmas Red Kettle Campaign.
Andol said they have a special “Kettle Competition” to see which volunteer can raise the most money for the Salvation Army, with first, second and third place winners.
Volunteers are encouraged to dress warmly for the weather, but are also encouraged to dress as Santa, as elves or other fun holiday characters as they ring.
Having back-up singers can make for a fun and interesting hour for the family, but children under 16 years old must be accompanied by an adult.
“With so much need, people need some Christmas cheer this year,” Andol said.
“And volunteers receive a blessing as well. There is nothing sweeter than little bitty kids giving their change,” Andol added.
For more information about volunteering, contact Austin at 615-0022 or 323-6218 or Andol at 324-3304 or by e-mail at
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Last Updated ( Saturday, 21 November 2009 )
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