Red Kettle Challenge: The Salvation Army Launches 24-Hour Effort to Raise $50,000 in Central Indiana

 The Salvation Army of Central Indiana is calling on the community to join its 24-hour Red Kettle Challenge on Friday, December 5 to raise $50,000 to support vital programs and services across Indianapolis and surrounding counties.

The Red Kettle Challenge invites Hoosiers to rally together in one of three impactful ways:

• Donate at any physical Red Kettle across Central Indiana at a variety of retail partners, including Walmart, Sam's Club, Hobby Lobby, Kroger, Cabela's, and area malls
• Give online through the Virtual Red Kettle, available for those who prefer to donate from home or don’t carry cash 
• Volunteer two hours to ring the bell at a kettle location, helping to draw support and lift holiday spirits

Every donation brings The Salvation Army of Central Indiana closer to reaching the $50,000 goal, which will help sustain essential services for local families.

“Each Red Kettle represents hope,” said Major Malinda O’Neil, Area Commander of The Salvation Army. “When someone drops a dollar into a kettle or volunteers to ring the bell, they’re fueling programs that feed hungry neighbors, keep families housed, and provide pathways to stability. These kettles don’t just make Christmas brighter. They make an entire year of life-changing services possible.”

Funds raised on December 5 will directly support programs such as emergency shelter, addiction recovery services, food assistance, youth programs, and family support services - all of which depend on the annual Red Kettle Campaign to operate. 
 

Additionally, Rick’s Café Boatyard will be participating in the Challenge. Customers who dine in at the restaurant on the city’s west side will have the opportunity to have their donation count toward the $50,000 goal.
 

With community participation, The Salvation Army believes the $50,000 challenge goal is within reach.

To donate online or sign up to volunteer as a bell ringer, visit RegisterToRing.com. Give to the Virtual Red Kettle at https://donate.salvationarmyindiana.org/CentralIndianaVRK2025.