Floyd County Salvation Army asks for help filling the Red Kettles

To The Press

The appearance of the Salvation Army Red Kettles and the ringing of bells is a good indication that the Christmas season is here.

Ninety percent of the funds raised through the Red Kettle campaign stay in the community, said Salvation Army board member Cherie Schafer. The other 10% goes to meet administrative costs.

“The Salvation Army is committed to doing the most good for the most people in the most need,” Schafer said. “Our services in the Floyd County area are able to be so successful because of your generosity,” she said to the people who donate.

The Salvation Army in previous years has had an annual budget of about $20,000 that has been used to help assist with avoiding evictions and utility shut-offs and helping out in emergency situations such as fire, floods, health and transportation emergencies.

“We have been able to support the distribution of backpacks at National Night out, food pantries, YMCA Y’s Guys, TLC, Veterans Affairs, and the free Thanksgiving Dinner and soup supper at Christmas by CC Cares,” Schafer said. “This year we were also able to help our schools in Charles City, RRMR, and Central Springs with funding for additional expenses and supplies for their student food pantries.”

Schafer said the bell-ringing schedule has been reduced this year because of health concerns, but there will still be opportunities to help fill the kettles at four locations in Charles City – at Fareway, Ace Hardware, Hy-Vee and Theisen’s on Fridays and Saturdays through Dec. 18.

Another option is to send a contribution through the mail, she said. Checks should be made payable to “The Floyd County Red Kettle Fund” and sent to The Salvation Army, 200 S. Main Street, Charles City, Iowa 50616.

That address is the location of St. John Evangelical Lutheran Church, Schafer said.

“We wish to publicly thank them. They have graciously offered their assistance with office space and support for many years, which is a special gift that has made our mission easier in so many ways,” Schafer said.

The County Service Unit Board sincerely thanks everyone who supports the Salvation Army in Floyd County, she said.

“Our wish for you is a healthy, happy Christmas season and 2022. God Bless You All!” Schafer said.