Tuscaloosa’s Salvation Army to Kick Off $80,000 Holiday Red Kettle Campaign

The Salvation Army in Tuscaloosa will kick off its iconic Christmas celebration and fundraiser, the Red Kettle Campaign, this Friday.

In a press release, Lt. Schelika Chisolm of the Salvation Army told the Tuscaloosa Thread that Captain Michael Chisolm will launch the campaign by ringing their iconic red bell at the University Mall in Tuscaloosa this Friday at 6 p.m.

"We are excited to ring in the holiday season with this event," Michael Chisolm said. "We want to remind everyone that The Salvation Army provides many services and programs to those in need right here in Tuscaloosa. When you give to a Red Kettle, you are helping your neighbors because those donations stay local."

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The Chisolms said the Salvation Army gave out more than 51,400 meals to the hungry and provided almost 18,000 nights of shelter, among many other programs and services.

The holiday campaign primarily funds the Angel Tree initiative, which provides gifts and clothing to those in need - the program aided more than 1,110 people last year.

"We still have many Christmas angels that need adopting," said Captain Michael Chisolm. "Red Kettle donations can help ensure every child gets to experience the joy and miracle of Christmas."

This fiscal year and holiday season, the organization expects an even higher demand as families struggle with high prices across the board.

"Many families are still in need," Captain Michael Chisolm said. "We've set this year's fundraising goal at $80,000 to meet the increased needs this holiday season and beyond."

The Red Kettle Campaign will also embrace modernity and feature QR codes enabling digital donations, as well as through credit cards, Apple Pay, Google Pay, PayPal, and Venmo.

Captain Chisolm said donations can be made online at tuscaloosakettle.org, and supporters can volunteer to host group fundraisers there as well. You can also learn more by calling 803-417-3577 or visiting salvationarmytuscaloosa.org.