The act of giving is part of what makes the holiday season so magical. There may not be a better example of giving than the Salvation Army Red Kettle Campaign.
“I like to say that we were the original crowdfunders,” shares Julie Budden, divisional director of development for Salvation Army’s Southwest Ohio and Northeast Kentucky Division.
The Red Kettle Campaign began in 1891 in San Francisco, when a Salvation Army officer placed a lobster pot to collect donations to help feed 1,000 people on Christmas Day. The ringing of the bell was introduced in 1907 in New York as a volunteer attempted to draw the attention of bankers on Wall Street to donate. The tradition has continued since and grown to help more than 31 million people during the holidays.
One of the unique benefits of giving to the Red Kettle Campaign is that the donations stay in your zip code.
“Funds raised stay local to a community to serve those needs,” Julie says. “In recent years, we have received an increase in requests for things like rental assistance which helps with the prevention of homelessness, utilities and essentials like food, clothing or emergency needs.
“At Christmas time, families who may need to make challenging choices on a tight budget can turn to us for support,” she adds. “We believe no child should be forgotten at Christmas and with the help of generous contributions, we can meet the immediate and longer-term needs of families all year long. The Salvation Army’s love extends far beyond the moment of service.”
Salvation Army’s Red Kettles can be found at local Kroger and Walmart stores as well as other retail locations throughout the region. Donate beyond the Red Kettle by giving online or via text message. The Salvation Army, which has been operating since 1865, is also supported by corporate donations, grants and in-kind donations.
Giving the gift of your time is another way to help the Salvation Army.
“We have volunteer opportunities available and going to our website can help you identify your closest location for year-round opportunities as well as bell ringing,” Julie explains. “Bell ringing shifts are usually two hours, and they can be somewhere close to your neighborhood. Many families bring their children and make this an annual tradition.”
Beloved Cincinnati WGRR radio personalities Chris O’Brien and Janeen Coyle will follow previous ambassador Jim Scott in encouraging volunteers as the 2025 Red Kettle Ambassadors for The Salvation Army in Greater Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky.
“Jim Scott set such a wonderful example of what it means to give with joy,” say Chris and Janeen. “We’re honored to follow in his footsteps and help keep that bell ringing for families who need a little extra hope this Christmas.”
The Red Kettle Campaign kicked off in November and runs through Christmas Eve.
“I cherish the holiday tradition of hearing the sound of the bells every year because you know Christmas is on the way and someone’s Christmas will be better because of you and your contribution, big or small,” Julie notes. “The Salvation Army kettles and bells are a reminder to give to others.”
This Red Kettle season, follow the jingle of the bell and consider giving in person, send the text KETTLE to 31333, volunteer time or donate gifts online. SalArmy.org/SWONEKY