HUTCHINSON, Kan. — As Christmas approaches later this week, the Salvation Army in Hutchinson is wrapping up its holiday distribution efforts while making a final push toward its Red Kettle fundraising goal, according to Major Paul James.
James said the organization distributed food and toys to families last week and planned to help additional families Monday morning who missed scheduled appointments.
“We had over 900 families with food and whatnot, and roughly close to 1,000 kids,” James said. “We will have a brief time this morning where we will help out those who missed their appointments for whatever reason and help a few more.”
With three days remaining in the Salvation Army’s 12 Days of Ringing campaign, James said the local Red Kettle goal of $85,000 was about $23,000 short. The Red Kettle effort is part of a larger annual fundraising goal of $300,000 to support year-round programs.
“Eighty-five thousand is our Red Kettle goal, but our overall goal is $300,000,” James said. “We are still about $150,000 down from that, roughly, though we have made some progress recently.”
James said community support has included an increase in individual bell ringers, which helps reduce staffing costs and allows more funds to go directly to programs.
“We had more individuals who volunteered,” James said. “Some people rang more hours this year than ever before. It definitely helps the bottom line.”
As part of this year’s campaign, the Salvation Army partnered with Westphal Jewelers to promote the Red Kettle effort through a Ring for Bling drawing that awarded a $1,500 diamond ring to an eligible bell ringer. The winner, drawn live on the BW Morning Show, was longtime volunteer Roger Sellers.
Sellers, who also won Chiefs tickets in a previous year, has increased his ringing hours over time and was recognized for his continued commitment to the campaign.
“That promotion definitely sparked interest,” James said. “People were calling and asking how they could sign up to ring.”
James said giving often increases in the final days before Christmas, when shoppers finish purchases and look for ways to give back. He added that economic uncertainty and rising costs have made this season more challenging for many families.
“The need has increased each year,” James said. “Inflation is a big part of that. Dollars just do not go as far as they used to.”
Beyond holiday assistance, James highlighted ongoing programs, including a shower and hygiene service that has provided more than 1,000 showers this year, as well as emergency help with rent and utilities.
“A lot of individuals we serve are working and need a place to get clean and be fresh for work,” James said. “It is an honor to be able to help people in that way.”
James also noted that donations are accepted beyond Christmas, with the Salvation Army’s year-end campaign continuing through Jan. 31.
“Just because Christmas has passed does not mean the need has gone away,” James said. “We hope people will continue to think about the Salvation Army and their neighbors.”