IDAHO, USA — It is a sound of the season as common as a Christmas carol; The ringing of the Salvation Army Bells. 'Tis the season for ringing bells and the iconic Salvation Army red kettles are part of their largest fundraiser of the year.
"Bell ringing is for us to do a very quick, big fundraiser to help us pay for the Christmas needs of the community," Major Tom Stambaugh, The Salvation Army's Treasure Valley Coordinator and Boise Corps Officer said. "Whether that's toys, food, or ongoing services come January."
As the holidays and changing seasons approach, the Salvation Army Boise Corps is seeing some changing needs in our community.
In October, the Salvation Army Boise Corps provided services to 126 new families in the Treasure Valley.
"These are brand new families that have never been to the Salvation Army for any assistance," Major Stambaugh said.
More local working families need help, according to the demographics.
Major Stambaugh said that he has met many of those families, which include nurses, bankers and small business owners.
"These are people who are born and raised in Idaho," Major Stambaugh said. "Raising their families and two working [parents] in the home, but find that their income is just not matching up to the high rising costs of rent, food, childcare, gas - and all the other things that stretch a family's budget."
So whether it is cash or coin, the organization states, every dollar that goes into a Salvation Army red kettle goes right back into the community.
"Our neighbors are so good to the Salvation Army and donating to our kettles or our Christmas needs," Major Stambaugh said. "Because they know we're working to help what could be real literally your next-door neighbor."
Major Stambaugh says we're fortunate to live in a generous and giving community - and giving could also mean giving your time, the Salvation Army is always looking for bell ringing volunteers.
You can donate to the Salvation Army during bell ringing season online or at the red kettle bells found in front of many grocery stores.
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