The familiar sound of ringing bells and the sight of red kettles will soon return to St. Thomas as The Salvation Army launches its annual Red Kettle Campaign, beginning the day after Thanksgiving. The organization is calling on volunteers from the island community to help bring hope and assistance to those in need this Christmas season.
The Red Kettle tradition dates back to 1917, when a Salvation Army officer in San Francisco used a soup pot to collect donations to feed the hungry. That same year, The Salvation Army began its ministry on St. Thomas, continuing more than a century of service to the island’s most vulnerable residents.
Tom Bolt, Chair of the St. Thomas Advisory Board and longtime bell ringer, encourages others to take part in this beloved holiday tradition. “It’s truly the best thing about the Christmas season,” he shared. “The joy, smiles and community spirit experienced while ringing the bell remind us of what Christmas is really about—helping those most in need in our island community.”
The Salvation Army is seeking individuals, families, and community organizations to volunteer for two-hour shifts, Monday through Saturday between 9 a.m. and 9 p.m. Bell ringers can choose from six convenient locations: K-Mart at Tutu Park Mall, PriceSmart, The Market at Tutu Park Mall, Walgreens, and Cost-U-Less. Two volunteers per time slot are encouraged, and all necessary materials will be provided by The Salvation Army.
“Every ring of the bell represents hope for someone in need,” said Major Mig Lavenbein, Corps Officer of The Salvation Army St. Thomas Corps. “Your time at the kettle helps us provide food, shelter and support for the poor, the homeless and the elderly throughout our community.”
To volunteer or learn more, please contact Major Tim Lavenbein at (215) 510-8440 or email tim.lavenbein@use.salvationarmy.org.
Join the tradition. Ring the bell! Be part of the reason hope marches on this Christmas.
