Double the Impact: Salvation Army Red Kettle Donations to be Matched Up to $12,000

The Salvation Army of Bloomington is getting ready for the final week of its annual Red Kettle Campaign, which funds programs and services provided to the community in 2026. Starting on Friday, December 19 and running through Christmas Eve, the final day of the campaign, all donations made to Red Kettles across Monroe County will be doubled up to $12,000 thanks to a gift from an anonymous local supporter.

"A matching gift like this turns generosity into immediate action," said Captain Brenna Lee, pastor and corps administrator for The Salvation Army. "Donations made to Red Kettles this weekend will be doubled, up to $12,000, supporting food assistance, emergency help, and year-round services."

Last year The Salvation Army of Bloomington provided over 63,350 meals to those facing hunger in Monroe County and distributed over 7,000 Christmas toys and gifts to children from local households struggling to put gifts under the tree. Over the 6-week Red Kettle Campaign, The Salvation Army needs to raise $247,450 to continue to provide impactful programs like these to local households.

Volunteer bell ringers are needed to sign up for 2-hour shifts to ensure that every Red Kettle can be out each day through Christmas Eve. Individuals, groups, and families are encouraged to visit RegisterToRing.com to sign up for the date, time, and location of their choosing. Red Kettles have been placed at a number of locations this year, including Walmart, Kroger, Hobby Lobby, and Sam's Club. Shoppers should also keep an eye out for smaller counter kettles near registers at retailers around the county.

Back again this year is the popular Virtual Red Kettle, an online fundraising campaign that encourages the community to participate virtually. Supporters can give safely and securely online by visiting salarmy.us/bloomingtonvrk2025.