The Salvation Army Finds Golden Surprise in Red Kettle on Christmas Eve

Christmas Eve, the final day of The Salvation Army's annual Red Kettle Campaign, is always joyful and filled with blessings. This year, a surprise discovery in one of the Red Kettles at the end of the day will bring even more joy to Wayne County families in 2026. 

Major Charles Pinkston at The Salvation Army of Richmond discovered the surprise gift as he counted donations from a Red Kettle that had hung that day at Hobby Lobby. Neatly tucked into a folded one-dollar bill was a one-ounce gold Krugerrand coin worth just over $4,000.

"We would like to give a huge thank you to the anonymous donor who donated the gold coin in our kettle at Hobby Lobby on the very last day of bell ringing this year," said Major Pinkston. "It was quite the surprise as it was in the next-to-the-last bucket of the season. What an amazing gift to be able to share in helping those in need here in Wayne County!" 

The Salvation Army had a goal of raising $35,000 in Red Kettles leading up to Christmas. Before finding the Krugerrand, their total fell short at $33,736.98. Thanks to this unexpected gift, The Salvation Army has now met its Red Kettle Campaign goal and is prepared to meet the needs of the community through 2026.

Red Kettle donations support vital programs and ministries and help to purchase food and personal hygiene items for the food pantry. To learn more about The Salvation Army of Richmond, including how to volunteer or help support its programs, reach out to Major Pinkston at (765) 966-7791.