Detroit Mayor Mary Sheffield Joins The Salvation Army of Metro Detroit for its 2026 Red Kettle Christmas Campaign
The Salvation Army of Metro Detroit has launched its 2026 Red Kettle Christmas Campaign, with a $7.3 million fundraising goal and Detroit Mayor Mary Sheffield serving as campaign chair and Commercial Alliance President and CEO Scott Wolffis serving as vice chair. The annual fundraiser supports individuals and families across Wayne, Oakland and Macomb counties.
Mayor Sheffield is the first Detroit mayor to chair the Red Kettle Christmas Campaign in The Salvation Army's 139-year history of serving the city. Her appointment marks a significant milestone for the nonprofit organization, which has been a source of hope and assistance for Detroit residents since 1887.
As campaign chair and vice chair, respectively, Sheffield and Wolffis will engage residents, businesses and community organizations in supporting The Salvation Army’s mission to serve people in need without discrimination.
"We're honored to have Mayor Sheffield and Scott Wolffis lending their leadership and voices to this year's Red Kettle Christmas Campaign," said Captain Shanell Debela, metro Detroit area commander for The Salvation Army Great Lakes Division. "Their commitment to our community reflects the spirit of generosity that makes metro Detroit such a special place. To Give with Joy is more than just making a donation — it's showing neighbors in need that their community cares and that hope is within reach."
This year’s $7.3 million goal is up from $7.1 million last year as households continue to struggle with food, housing and utility costs. The need is especially great in Detroit, where 32.7% of residents live in poverty, according to the U.S. Census Bureau’s 2020–2024 estimates. Additional support is essential to sustain critical programs for people who need them most.
Capt. Debela, Wolffis and other Salvation Army officials will participate in the Red Kettle Christmas Campaign kickoff on Friday, Nov. 20, during the Detroit Tree Lighting Ceremony at Cadillac Square. The World’s Tallest Red Kettle, standing 56 feet tall and illuminated by 26,000 LED lights, will be lit at 6 p.m. as a symbol of hope and generosity across metro Detroit.
“The Red Kettle Christmas Campaign demonstrates what’s possible when our community comes together,” Wolffis said. “I’ve seen firsthand the difference this organization makes. I’m proud to join Mayor Sheffield in encouraging businesses and individuals to give generously, knowing their support continues long after Christmas.”
Volunteers Needed
Red kettle bell ringing begins Friday, Nov. 6, with most locations operating by Black Friday. Individuals, families, businesses and community groups may volunteer for shifts of at least two hours. Bells will ring daily, except Sundays, through Christmas Eve.
Red kettles can be found at participating retailers throughout metro Detroit including Kroger, Walmart, Sam's Club, Bass Pro Shops, Busch's, Emagine Theatres, JCPenney, Hobby Lobby, Hollywood Market, MJR Theaters and others.
Interested individuals and groups can sign up to ring a bell at SalvationArmyVolunteer.org.
Ways to Give with Joy
Metro Detroiters can help The Salvation Army reach its $7.3 million fundraising goal in several ways:
- Donate online: Visit SAmetrodetroit.org or give at any of the 300+ red kettle locations throughout metro Detroit.
- Give by text: Text GIFT to 24365.
- Donate by phone: Call 248-443-5500.
- Volunteer: Sign up to ring a bell at SalvationArmyVolunteer.org.
Making a Difference All Year Long
While the red kettles are a beloved symbol of Christmas, the impact of every donation extends far beyond the holiday season. Last year, support from the Red Kettle Christmas Campaign helped The Salvation Army of Metro Detroit:
- Serve more than 7,100 meals each day to neighbors experiencing food insecurity.
- Provide more than 1,100 nights of shelter to individuals and families in need of a safe place to stay.
- Distribute nearly 11,000 gift cards to help households purchase holiday meals.
All contributions to The Salvation Army's 2026 Red Kettle Christmas Campaign are tax-deductible with $.83 of every dollar staying local, supporting individuals and families throughout Wayne, Oakland and Macomb counties.
Special Thanks
The Salvation Army of Metro Detroit is grateful for the generous support of its 2026 Red Kettle Christmas Campaign partners, including Bank of America, College H.U.N.K.S., Commercial Alliance, Detroit Pistons, Fifth Third Bank, Meridian Health, Pat Milliken Ford, RexAir and Royal Park Hotel.