Bender Lumber Extends $6,000 Red Kettle Match in Wake of Cold Temps and Snow

Single-digit temps and heavy snow put a damper on the $6,000 Bender Lumber Co. Red Kettle Match last weekend, so the Bloomington-based company has offered to extend the match to include December 19 and 20. Every dollar dropped into The Salvation Army's kettles in Bartholomew County will be matched up to $6,000, doubling the impact of every gift. 

"We're so grateful that Bender Lumber is extending this exciting match," said Captain Amy Tompkins. "Our Red Kettles really took a hit with all this cold weather, so this will give us a second chance to raise the rest of the funds and meet that $6,000 goal. It's my hope that shoppers really dig deep into their pockets and give with all their hearts!" 
 
Last year, The Salvation Army provided over 242,000 meals to those facing food insecurity in the community. Programs that provide rent and utility assistance, safe youth activities, Christmas gifts for children, and year-round senior programs are all supported by Red Kettle donations and support from companies like Bender Lumber. Every dollar dropped into a kettle makes a real impact in the community.
 
Shoppers looking for a Red Kettle during the match period will be able to find bell ringers at Walmart, Kroger, Hobby Lobby, TJ Maxx, and Sam's Club. Anyone interested in volunteering to ring a bell this holiday season is invited to visit RegisterToRing.com and find a location, date, and time that works for their schedule.

Online shoppers can still participate by visiting The Salvation Army of Columbus' Virtual Red Kettle at salarmy.us/columbusvrk2025. They can make secure donations right from the comfort of home and still help The Salvation Army provide vital services in 2026. 
 
Every donation given to The Salvation Army through the annual Red Kettle Campaign provides help and hope to those in need, and all gifts stay right here in Indiana. Visit SAColumbus.org to learn more about how you can help The Salvation Army spread joy in our community and continue to help those in need in 2026.