While some may think it is still a little early to unpack the holiday decorations, The Salvation Army has been hard at work, planning Christmas programs for several months.

Now, as the red kettles are appearing outside stores, and Angel Trees are being set up, volunteers are needed to help ensure men, women, and children in need throughout our community experience the joys of Christmas.

According to a press release, The Salvation Army needs volunteer bell ringers from November 21 to December 24, 2020, from 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Mondays through Saturdays. The annual Red Kettle Campaign is one of the Army’s primary fundraising efforts of the year. Every dollar collected in the red kettles supports the wide range of services and programs provided throughout the year right here in Texarkana, including feeding the hungry, sheltering the homeless, offering emergency financial assistance, providing toys to disadvantaged children, and hosting after-school programs.

For more than 100 years, The Salvation Army’s red kettles have been a symbol of goodwill during the holiday season. “This year, signing up and volunteering as a bell ringer is easier than ever!” said Major Czajkowski of The Salvation Army.

Go to RegisterToRing.com and simply select the location, date, and time you would like ring. You can split a shift with a friend or sign up as a group. Individuals, families, groups of friends or co-workers, and church groups are welcome.”

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, and in addition to the implementation of basic safety procedures, all bell ringers will also be provided with daily PPE safety kits including a branded mask, disposable gloves, apron, and disinfectant. Strict safety protocols have been developed ensuring the health and safety of all potential donors and bell ringers.

Volunteer to Support the Angel Tree Program

Through the generous support of community donors, The Salvation Army will provide gifts for 800 children this year. They are seeking volunteers to help manage Angel Tree locations and later help sort and distribute gifts to program participants.

Volunteer to Serve Holidays Meals

For more than 54 years, The Salvation Army has served Thanksgiving and Christmas meals to approximately 125 residents. They are seeking approximately 10 volunteers to sign up for 2  hours for each of the holiday meals. The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in heightened need and demand for shelter and meals. Safety protocols are in place in all Salvation Army buildings, and volunteers will be requested to adhere to established program procedures.

Volunteers can sign up online to ring a bell at RegisterToRing. For Angel Tree and other volunteer opportunities please call The Salvation Army at (870) 774-2701. To make a donation, or for more ways to engage with The Salvation Army, please visit salvationarmytexas.org/Texarkana.

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