Red Kettle campaign won’t have bell ringers this year
Donations can be given through countertop kettles
File photo by Tom Rivers: Chuck Eberhardt, left, and Al Pulcino, both members of the American Legion in Holley, were outside the Eastern Orleans Community Center in the Public Square in this photo from Nov. 25, 2013, ringing the bells for the Red Kettle campaign.
There won’t be bell ringers this year for the annual Red Kettle fundraising campaign. Residents can still give to the campaign through counter top kettles that will be placed in many local stores beginning on Tuesday.
Annette Finch, director of community services for Community Action of Orleans and Genesee, said the change was made to protect bell ringers during the Covid-19 pandemic.
Finch also serves as the Salvation Army treasurer. The proceeds from the Red Kettle campaign go to serve people in crisis in Orleans County. The campaign usually raises about $25,000 which is administered by Community Action.
“Salvation Army is able to assist hundreds of struggling families and our community,” Finch said. “The need this year will be even greater than in the past. We anticipate this need will grow during these difficult times. Community Action is committed to being a source of help.”
All of the money given in the kettles stays in Orleans County, Finch said.
“We appreciate your continued support of our Red Kettles in the past and hope that we can again help our neighbors this year,” Finch said.
People can also donate by sending a check to Community Action, 409 East State St., Albion, NY 14411 and indicate on the check “Salvation Army.”
