The Salvation Army is $50,000 Away from Kettle Goal

MEMPHIS, Tennessee, December 18, 2007 - With just a few days left in the red kettle campaign, the local The Salvation Army is just $50,000 away from their goal of $290,000.

"The Memphis-community has responded very generously so far this year to the bell-ringers," said Major Mark Woodcock, Area Commander, The Salvation Army. "We are very grateful for the positive response the community has given us and want to encourage people to continue to support the red kettles and help us reach our target."

The money raised from the kettles enables The Salvation Army to continue helping people break the cycle of homelessness and addiction, as well as offering other services such as the utility assistance program, counseling and the food pantry.

"We have been hearing reports from our headquarters that kettles around the country are below targets," added Major Woodcock. "We want to thank everyone who has donated so far, for proving Memphis is a city that cares. We will be bell-ringing through Christmas Eve and are confident the Memphis-community will continue to show their support of The Salvation Army and enable us to reach our goal."

Kettles can be found at more than 70 locations throughout the greater Memphis-area, including Wal-Mart, Sam's Club, Walgreens, Schnucks and Kroger stores, through Monday, December 24. The bell-ringers will not be out on December 23 as The Salvation Army does not ring on Sundays.

About The Salvation Army Memphis
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. And believes that enduring change comes from holistic ministry to the mind, body and spirit.

Every year, The Salvation Army Memphis helps more than 27,000 people, provides more than 60,000 nights of lodging, and serves more than 200,000 meals and snacks.

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

Elizabeth Duncan
The Salvation Army
(901) 260 -9130