FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 10, 2026

Every $1 Becomes $5! The Salvation Army Launches Red Kettle Season with Holiday Celebration and $25,000 Matching Gift Opportunity

Santa, Enchanted Princesses, live music and holiday treats highlight November 13 kickoff at Fred Meyer South in Medford.

MEDFORD, Ore. — November 10, 2026 — The bells are ringing, the holiday spirit is arriving, and generosity is going further than ever! The Salvation Army Southern Oregon invites the community to stop by anytime during its annual Red Kettle Kickoff on Friday, November 13, between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. at Fred Meyer South in Medford.

This year's kickoff brings an extraordinary opportunity to make a difference. Thanks to generous community sponsors, for every $1 donated, sponsors will contribute an additional $4, up to $25,000 in matching gifts thanks to Harry & David, Hunter Communications, and faithful friends and businesses. That means a $20 donation becomes $100 to help local families in need!

Whether stopping by for a few minutes or enjoying some holiday entertainment, visitors can experience festive activities and special appearances throughout the day, including:

• Santa Claus and Enchanted Princesses bringing Christmas magic to the celebration.
• Live music and entertainment featuring Michael Brisbane and the Brisbane Project, Salvation Army musicians and talented local performers.
• Complimentary Harry & David truffles, courtesy of the event's Presenting Sponsor.
• Holiday cheer and opportunities to give back while celebrating the start of the Christmas season.

While the day promises plenty of holiday fun, the real celebration is the difference these donations make for struggling families throughout Southern Oregon.

For more than 128 years, The Salvation Army has been a source of hope for local individuals and families facing hunger, homelessness, housing instability and financial hardship. Funds raised through the Red Kettle Campaign help provide food, emergency assistance, housing support, youth programs and other vital services throughout the year.

"Every day, we see families working hard to make ends meet, seniors struggling with basic necessities, and individuals facing unexpected crises. The Red Kettle Campaign gives our community a simple but powerful way to help."

"This year, we're asking everyone to help us make the most of this incredible matching opportunity. Whether you give $5, $20 or $100, your generosity can multiply fivefold and bring hope to someone who needs it."

— Major Mulch
Jackson County Coordinator
The Salvation Army Southern Oregon

The goal is to unlock the full $25,000 in sponsor matching gifts during the kickoff celebration, giving the community an opportunity to make an immediate and meaningful impact at the start of the holiday season.

The Red Kettle Kickoff also launches the annual bell-ringing season, bringing together volunteers, businesses, service clubs and families who give their time to support neighbors in need.

The community is encouraged to drop by anytime between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m., enjoy some holiday cheer, and make a donation that can have five times the impact. Every gift, large or small, helps make the season brighter for local families.