The Salvation Army's charity efforts extend beyond Christmas, but now is the season for the organization's most conspicuous funding drive.
From now until Dec. 23, men and women wearing red aprons, ringing handheld bells and standing in front of The Salvation Army kettle drums will be strategically placed at shopping centers throughout the Grand Forks area.
The Salvation Army Kettle Drive kicked off Thursday in Grand Forks with the organization's new mascot, Captain Concern, ringing the bell in front of Home of Economy.
Bell ringers also will work at Cabela's, J.C. Penney's, Sears, Macy's, the Grand Cities Mall, K-Mart, Leever's, Lowe's, Michael's Crafts and Gifts, the Riverwalk Centre, Sam's Club and Wal-Mart.
This year, the organization is hoping to raise $210,000 to meet the needs of families living in the Grand Forks area. The figure is about $10,000 more than was raised last year, according to Mike Fuqua, envoy for the organization.
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Last year 419 Christmas food baskets were distributed in the Grand Forks area, 3,695 toys were given out and over 1,330 people were served through the Army.
Assistance doesn't stop with Christmas, Fuqua said. The organization also has helped families in the area with rental assistance, transitional housing needs, clothing items, school supplies, some medical needs and youth programs.
Volunteer bell-ringers still are needed. Call the Christmas help hotline at (701) 772-0028 between 9 a.m. and 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday. Or you can call The Salvation Army at (701) 775-2597.
