Kettle Drive goes virtual, too

For the first time in 130 years, The Salvation Army is starting its annual holiday fundraising campaign early across the country in order to rescue Christmas. The funds raised through the organization’s iconic red kettles are at risk this year due to COVID-19 while requests for services are at an all-time high.

In the Flathead, the Salvation Army served 350 families last year. If they see the same level of increased requests for service, that would mean over 500 families who need our help this holiday season.

At the same time, due to the closing of retail stores, consumers carrying less cash and coins, and the decline in foot traffic, the Salvation Army could see up to a 50% decrease in funds raised nationally through the traditional red kettles, which would limit their capability to provide services for the most vulnerable. Now more than ever, they’re making it safer and simpler to donate in order to support the most vulnerable in the Flathead, by hosting your very own Virtual Red Kettle and Challenge your friends and family. To set up your own Virtual Red Kettle page visit kalispellredkettle.org and click on “Become a Fundraiser”