The Salvation Army is asking Lorain County residents to help support local families this holiday season by volunteering as bell ringers for the annual Red Kettle campaign. The well-known tradition, now in its 134th year, remains a key source of funding for programs that serve people throughout Northeast and Northwest Ohio.
The campaign is familiar to many: red kettles stationed outside busy retailers, a ringing bell, and a simple greeting of “Merry Christmas.” For thousands of families, that tradition directly connects to food assistance, housing support, after-school programs, and basic needs throughout the year.
The Salvation Army said volunteer bell ringers play a significant role in keeping these services running. Major Tricia Brennen, divisional commander of The Salvation Army in Northeast and Northwest Ohio, stated in a news release that the organization wants to ensure all kettle locations are staffed as Christmas approaches and that anyone willing to donate their time can make a meaningful difference.
While the Red Kettle is a holiday symbol, its roots go back to 1891, when Salvation Army Captain Joseph McFee was looking for a way to fund a Christmas dinner for people going hungry in San Francisco. Inspired by a donation kettle he remembered from Liverpool, he placed a pot at the Oakland Ferry Landing with a sign encouraging people to “Keep the Pot Boiling.” The idea spread, and the Red Kettle soon became a tradition across the country.
Today, The Salvation Army serves more than 25 million people in the United States each year. That includes millions of meals, nights of shelter, and Christmas gifts for children whose families may be struggling. In Northeast and Northwest Ohio, donations placed in the Red Kettle stay within the community, supporting food pantries, rent and utility assistance, educational programs, and hot meals.
Many people also wonder what a bell ringer’s shift involves. Volunteers choose a date, time, and location that works for them. A kettle and bell are provided, and if another ringer is already present, volunteers simply let them know they’re taking over. The Salvation Army encourages ringers to greet shoppers and thank donors, noting that even a short shift can have a significant impact.
Families can volunteer together, and children may participate as long as they are supervised by a parent or guardian. Those needing to complete community service hours can indicate that when signing up, and individuals with court-ordered service requirements should contact their local Salvation Army office to confirm availability.
The organization’s regional fundraising goal this year is $3.6 million. According to The Salvation Army, just two hours of bell ringing can help provide 104 meals to neighbors in need. The funds raised through the Red Kettle also support long-term programs including homeless shelters, disaster relief services, rehabilitation programs, children’s activities, and anti-human trafficking efforts.
Those wanting to volunteer can sign up at RegisterToRing.com by selecting a location and shift time. The Salvation Army asks volunteers to notify their local office if they need to reschedule and explains that kettles are not placed on Sundays so staff and volunteers may attend worship and observe a day of rest.
Residents who cannot volunteer but still wish to help may donate at local kettles or visit SalvationArmyOhio.org. For additional information, the Salvation Army’s Northeast Ohio office can be reached at 216-861-8185.
The organization said that every hour spent ringing helps support essential programs and ensures families across the region receive assistance during the holidays and throughout the year.