The Salvation Army to Host Red Kettle Kick-Off on Saturday in Columbus

The bells will soon be ringing in Bartholomew County as The Salvation Army's Red Kettles make a return for the annual holiday fundraising campaign. The public is invited to a special Red Kettle Kick-Off on Saturday, November 7 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Clifty Crossing Center in Columbus.

"We are excited to invite our community to our Red Kettle Kick-Off this Saturday," said Captain Amy Tompkins. "It will be a wonderful opportunity to come together as we begin another Red Kettle season. QMIX 107.3 will be live with a DJ and our canteen will have food and drinks."

Clifty Crossing Center is located on Columbus' east side at 1343 N. National Road. The shopping center is home to one of the season's Red Kettles, which will be standing outside Hobby Lobby through Christmas Eve.

"I'm especially excited to have Liberty the Bell Ringing Horse and Santa Clause there to greet everyone and get them into the Christmas spirit," Captain Tompkins added. "We hope that you will join us for a fun-filled time as we celebrate the season of giving."

Donations made to The Salvation Army support its food pantry, utility and rent assistance programs, youth camps, and the life-changing Pathway of Hope program. Low-income seniors are also supported through Booth Manor, which provides housing and enrichment for a population that is often overlooked. 

Volunteers are needed to ring the bell at local retailers, including Hobby Lobby, Walmart, Sam's Club, and Kroger. Sign up for a 2-hour volunteer shift today at salarmy.us/ColumbusBellRinger.

Every donation given to The Salvation Army of Columbus provides help and hope to those in need, and all gifts stay right here in Bartholomew County. Visit SAColumbus.org to learn more about how you can help The Salvation Army spread joy in our community and continue to help those in need in 2027.