Ring the Bell. Change a Life. Help The Salvation Army of Petoskey Reach Its $140,000 Red Kettle Campaign Goal

The Salvation Army of Petoskey is kicking off its 2026 Red Kettle Campaign, inviting Northern Michigan communities to help reach its $140,000 fundraising goal. As the organization celebrates 125 years of service throughout the region, donations will support vital local programs, including food assistance, emergency financial aid, and Christmas support for individuals and families in need. Every dollar raised stays in Northern Michigan, helping bring hope and practical assistance to our neighbors.

Mayor John Murphy, the 2026 Red Kettle Campaign Chairman, is encouraging residents, businesses, churches, and civic organizations to support one of the region's most recognizable holiday traditions and help meet the growing needs of local families.

Mayor John Murphy

"One of the things that makes Northern Michigan special is the way people come together to help one another," said Mayor John Murphy. "The Red Kettle Campaign gives each of us an opportunity to make a meaningful difference in someone's life. Whether it's a few dollars dropped into a kettle, an hour spent ringing bells, or a business stepping forward as a sponsor, every act of generosity helps a neighbor in need. I hope our community will once again come together to ensure families throughout our region have hope for this holiday season and beyond."

Growing needs in our community make support for The Salvation Army's Red Kettle Campaign more important than ever, helping provide essential assistance to neighbors when they need it most. Every dollar raised stays local, helping individuals and families in Emmet, Charlevoix, and Antrim counties gain access to food, housing, and utility assistance.

Major Brian Reed

"Our commitment is to meet unmet needs across Emmet, Charlevoix, and Antrim counties by providing love, support, and hope through the Gospel message of Jesus Christ," said Major Brian Reed, Officer of Petoskey Command. "Every dollar raised through the Red Kettle Campaign helps us continue that mission and serve our neighbors in need."

Community partnerships with local businesses and volunteer organizations like Elk Rapids Rotary and Central Lake Lions Clubs are strengthening the Red Kettle Campaign by generously donating their time to ring bells and support fundraising efforts throughout the season. Their commitment reflects the spirit of service that continues to bring hope to neighbors in need.

The Salvation Army of Petoskey is also seeking additional volunteer and paid bell ringers, as well as Red Kettle Sponsors, to help expand community participation and reach this year's fundraising goal.

How You Can Help

• Donate at any Red Kettle location or online at SAPetoskey.org.
• Mail or deliver monetary donations to The Salvation Army of Petoskey: 2350 Mitchell Park Drive, Petoskey, MI 49770. Notate checks for “Petoskey Red Kettle”.
• Volunteer to ring bells or apply to become a paid bell ringer: Call (231) 330-1770.
• Round up purchases at Meyer Ace Hardware December 13-19 at all Petoskey and Harbor Springs locations.
• Double your impact during special matching days sponsored by Dave Kring Chevrolet, Real Estate One (Elk Rapids), Bingham Insurance Services, BC Pizza (Harbor Springs), BC Pizza (Boyne City), Fletch's GMC Buick Audi, First Community Bank, and Ironwood Construction.

·        Mark your calendars for December 18 and 19! Every $20 bill donated at a Salvation Army Red Kettle will be matched with four additional $20 bills, turning your $20 gift into $100 to support local neighbors in need. Don't miss this opportunity to make an even greater impact on this Christmas season.

Red Kettles will be located throughout Northern Michigan, including Petoskey, Harbor Springs, Boyne City, Charlevoix, Elk Rapids, Central Lake, and Bellaire. Community members can support The Salvation Army's mission by donating at any Red Kettle location through Christmas Eve.

The Salvation Army, an international movement, is an evangelical part of the Universal Christian Church. Its message is based on the Bible. Its ministry is motivated by the love of God. Its mission is to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and meet human needs in His name without discrimination. For more information about ministries, programs, and services, visit SAPetoskey.org or call (231) 347-3531.

2026 RED KETTLE LOCATIONS

Petoskey: Walmart, Hobby Lobby, Louie's Fresh Market, D&W Fresh Market and Oleson's Food Store

Harbor Springs: Harbor Springs Market

Charlevoix: Family Fare and Oleson's Food Store

Boyne City: Family Fare

Central Lake: Merrie's Market

Bellaire: Family Fare

Elk Rapids: Village Market