Give With Joy: The Salvation Army Kicks Off Red Kettle Campaign

PITTSBURGH (November 17, 2025) – With the season of giving fast-approaching, The Salvation Army Western Pennsylvania Division is kicking off its annual Red Kettle Campaign. Volunteers and donations are urgently needed across the region. The Salvation Army’s goal is to raise $2,303,000 across 28 counties in Western Pennsylvania, including $527,000 in Allegheny County.

As more families across the region face economic hardship heading into the holidays, the need for The Salvation Army's services continues to grow. The organization serves as a critical safety net, providing warm meals, emergency rental and utility assistance and food throughout the year. Every dollar stays local, supporting services in the community where the donation is collected.

“Gifts given now directly fund our ability to serve our communities well into 2026,” Major Marcus Jugenheimer, Divisional Commander for The Salvation Army of Western Pennsylvania said. “Across Pittsburgh and throughout Western Pennsylvania we are seeing a significant increase in requests for assistance. Thousands of working families and individuals are struggling to put food on their tables and heat their homes. It is imperative we raise these funds now to keep this critical safety net intact for our neighbors in need.”

This year’s fundraising campaign theme “Give With Joy” connects the cherished sights and sounds of the season to the feeling of hope and relief that a donation provides. Funds raised from now until December 24 ensure The Salvation Army can continue critical services including feeding initiatives, rent and utility assistance, seasonal assistance, youth empowerment and spiritual programs. The Salvation Army is grateful for the continued support of its Allegheny County Red Kettle Kickoff Sponsor, PNC Bank, whose partnership helps launch this essential campaign.

Donations to the Red Kettle Campaign can be made in person at locations throughout Western Pennsylvania or virtually by visiting salvationarmywpa.org. Gifts can also be given at any time by texting the word “Kettle” to 31333. Donors can then reply with their ZIP code to ensure each donation goes directly back into the community where they reside.

Volunteers to ring bells alongside the iconic Red Kettles are also a critical part of the annual campaign. On average, volunteer bell ringers raise $80-$100 over the course of one two-hour shift, which can provide up to 200 meals to those in need. Visit RegistertoRing.com to find a shift or contact your local Salvation Army location directly. 

Celebrating 160 years of global service as both a church and a social service organization, The Salvation Army began in London, England in 1865. Today, it provides critical services in 134 countries worldwide. The 28-county Western Pennsylvania Division serves thousands of needy families through a wide variety of support services. To learn more about The Salvation Army in Western Pennsylvania, visit salvationarmywpa.org. The Salvation Army … doing the most good for the most people in the most need. and volunteers are needed to support The Salvation Army’s Red Kettle Campaign across Western Pennsylvania.