Bender Lumber's Red Kettle Challenge is Back with $9,000 Matching Gift to The Salvation Army of Bloomington

Since 2020, Bender Lumber Co. has stepped up to offer a series of matching gifts that could double every dollar dropped into Salvation Army Red Kettles in Indiana communities where they customers live and work. The company's second match of the season is this week, taking place on December 4, 5, and 6 in Monroe County.

On these three days, Bender Lumber will match dollar for dollar cash donations in all Salvation Army Red Kettles in Monroe County up to $9,000. As more Hoosier households struggle to make ends meet, Bender Lumber is responding to the increased need by growing the total dollars that could be matched on this busy holiday shopping weekend. If shoppers step up to the challenge, then Salvation Army programs could see up to $9,000 in additional funds for use in 2026.

Founded in Bloomington in 1931, Bender Lumber has stores across central and southern Indiana. Donations made to Red Kettles in its hometown of Bloomington will be matched during the three-day challenge. These additional funds will help bolster community programs and offer aid to local residents throughout the coming year.

"Bender Lumber values serving and helping people in our community, which also is the mission of The Salvation Army," said Ben Watters, President of Bender Lumber. "When you give to a Red Kettle on a Match Day, you double your power to help and encourage even more people."

The Salvation Army of Bloomington is encouraging the public to meet the challenge put forth by the Bender Lumber team. "Give with twice the impact!" said Captain Brenna Lee. "Bender Lumber is generously matching every Red Kettle donation this Thursday through Saturday. Together, we can double the joy for families in need."

Last year, The Salvation Army provided 63,350 meals to those facing food insecurity in the community. Programs that provide household goods to families in need, 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, 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. 

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 BloomingtonSA.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.