The bells are back in Geneva as The Salvation Army kicked off its annual Red Kettle campaign on Friday with help from the city’s mayor, police, and firefighters.
This year’s goal: raise $50,000 by December 24 — every dollar staying in Geneva to support people in need.
Captain Manuel Sulca, who leads The Salvation Army of Geneva, said the community’s need for food, emergency help, and holiday support continues to grow.
“We continue to see a great need in our community as families and individuals look to The Salvation Army for assistance throughout the year,” he said in a press release.
The Red Kettle campaign helps fund services like the local food pantry, emergency aid, pastoral counseling, and toy drives for children.
New this year is the “Give With Joy” initiative — a national effort aimed at reminding people that giving doesn’t have to feel heavy.
“In a time when problems in the world feel overwhelmingly heavy, Give With Joy is an opportunity to redefine the meaning of helping others,” Sulca said. “Giving shouldn’t feel burdensome or overwhelming. It should uplift.”
To meet this year’s $50,000 goal, Sulca said the Geneva chapter needs hundreds of volunteers to staff kettles at local stores and sidewalks.
“By ringing the bell at a Red Kettle for two hours this holiday season, you are helping us feed a family of four for a week,” he said.
People can also help by adopting a family, hosting an Angel Tree, or donating directly.
Donations can be made at any local Red Kettle, online at https://salarmy.us/GenevaNYRedKettle, or by mailing a check to:
The Salvation Army of Geneva
41 North Street
Geneva, NY 14456
To volunteer, text TSAVolunteer to 31333.
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