The Salvation Army needs more bell ringers to kick off this year’s red kettle drive.
More than 300 hours of shifts remain unfilled for the campaign, which begins Nov. 22. Ringers will be stationed at Walmart and both Kroger stores.
About 20 groups have signed up to ring, kettle coordinator Michelle Yoder said. The majority of available shifts are at Walmart. Save-A-Lot has also agreed to participate in the campaign, but not enough volunteers are available to work the door.
“We fill November doors, then we’ll look ahead to December,” Yoder said.
Volunteers can sign up for a shift at www.registertoring.com or by calling Yoder at 765-366-9672.
Donations will also be collected from 18 counter kettles at local businesses.
Money from the kettles benefits emergency assistance for local families, youth groups, gifts for nursing home residents and school supplies. About 150 families were assisted from last year’s local campaign.
“I know when I came on five years ago, I never knew that any money had stayed in Montgomery County,” Yoder said.
The local Salvation Army is boosting its presence online to spread the word about the campaign. Videos and graphics have been shared on Facebook and other social media sites, and the organization is using online volunteer boards to recruit ringers.
The campaign runs through Dec. 23.