HOULTON, Maine — With income from its Christmas Kettle Campaign lagging behind expectations, The Salvation Army is encouraging the public to help the organization meet its annual goal by contributing generously during the “Kettle Blitz” Day on Thursday, Dec. 11 at red kettles throughout Northern New England.
The Divisional Kettle Blitz is a one-day competition among Salvation Army corps throughout the Northern New England Division.
Houlton’s Salvation Army headquarters will be one of the locations participating in the campaign. Others include Bangor, Augusta, Bath, Lewiston, Old Orchard Beach, Portland, Rockland and Sanford.
As of Dec. 5, The Salvation Army had collected $499,980 through its red kettle effort, a holiday fundraising tradition that dates back to the 1890s. This year The Salvation Army set a goal of $2,058,805 in its Northern New England Division which covers Maine, New Hampshire and Vermont.
The red kettles, more than 300 in the NNE Division, are strategically located by major retailers and manned by bell ringers and, occasionally, brass musicians.
Major James LaBossiere, divisional commander for The Salvation Army’s Northern New England Division, stated, “The shortfall in income may be the results of fewer shopping days between Thanksgiving and Christmas but we believe that the Kettle Blitz will generate interest and financial support so that we may help others.”
“Kettle Blitz” Day is intended to draw attention to society’s casualties, individuals and families who are struggling to survive. The Salvation Army assists them by providing food, clothing and, of course, toys for youngsters at Christmas. Last year in Northern New England, The Salvation Army assisted more than 123,500 individuals during the holidays and throughout the year.
Income from the red kettles not only helps during the Christmas season but throughout the year, making it even more important that the 2014 goal will be met.
