Red Kettle Volunteers Spreading Christmas Cheer Throughout the Community

MEMPHIS, Tennessee, December 10, 2008 - It is the season for giving, and Collierville teens are doing their part to help others. Friends, Andrew Berry, Hannah Everett, Ashton Huxtable and John Stewart are volunteer bell-ringers for The Salvation Army’s Red Kettle Campaign.

As these philanthropic teenagers effectively demonstrate, donating money is not the only way to make a difference this holiday season. All it takes is a little time and a big heart.

“Christmas is a great time to reflect on how fortunate we are and to give back to the community,” said Andrew Berry, a sophomore at St. George’s High School. “It is just great to know that by volunteering a few hours of my time, I am bringing relief to those who really need it. Even the smallest donation can make a difference.”

The Red Kettle campaign is the country’s longest running fundraiser.  It started in San Francisco in 1891 and quickly spread throughout the country.  In Memphis, The Salvation Army rings at more than 70 locations throughout the area.  Donations received through the Red Kettles allow The Salvation Army to continue to run their shelters, daycare, rehabilitation programs, disaster assistance and utility assistance programs throughout the year. 

“It is difficult to find enough volunteers to man every kettle and fill every shift,” said Major Mark Woodcock, Area Commander of The Salvation Army. “It is wonderful when young members of the community decide to participate, and we are very appreciative of their generosity and support.”

Volunteer Coordinator for The Salvation Army at (901) 260-9120.  Additional information is available at www.salvationarmymemphis.org.

About The Salvation Army
The Salvation Army Memphis began its work in the city on October 18, 1900. Since then, the organization has fought hunger, homelessness, addiction, poverty, abuse, and suffering caused by disaster. At the center of The Salvation Army's work in Memphis is a common belief that all people can make positive changes. The Salvation Army believes in the healing power of compassion, love, dignity and respect, and use these principles to guide our actions and words.

The Salvation Army values the transforming power of God and the salvation that comes from knowing Christ as our personal savior. The Salvation Army believes that enduring change comes from holistic ministry to the mind, body and spirit.

In 2007, The Salvation Army Memphis helped more than 17,855 people, provided more than 65,000 nights of lodging, and served 208,251 meals and snacks. For more information on our work, visit www.salvationarmymemphis.org.

CONTACT:
Abby Turner
Thompson & Berry PR
(901) 328-5233

Elizabeth Duncan
The Salvation Army
(901) 260 -9130