The Red Kettle campaign is kicking off its 2024 efforts and is The Salvation Army’s oldest and most important annual fundraiser and the lifeline for many of The Salvation Army’s vital programs, local officials said. Every dollar raised through the 132-year-old campaign stays in the community and enables The Salvation Army to bring life-changing programs and services to those in crisis and need throughout the year.

Even though the economy shows signs of improvement, families across the Vicksburg area continue to struggle with rising prices and diminished resources, The Salvation Army said, adding the program remains a vital source of hope for many faced with impossible choices like paying the rent, purchasing groceries, or keeping the heat on. In the last year alone, the organization assisted more than 3,215 families in crisis with various programs and services.

“The kettle campaign dates back to 1891 when a Salvation Army Captain used a crab pot to collect funds in San Francisco for the destitute,” said Maj. Janna Torgerson of The Salvation Army. “Now, the Red Kettle has grown to be the most recognized charitable campaign worldwide.”

The money raised will help The Salvation Army provide food, shelter, and social services to residents who may be in crisis long after the holiday season ends.

“We use these funds to finance a large portion of our work throughout the year,” Torgerson said. “When someone donates to a Red Kettle, they are helping support their neighbors right here in our region, not just for the holiday, but beyond Christmas.”

The iconic Red Kettles will grace the entrances of local stores and businesses throughout the holiday season. This year, The Salvation Army has set a fundraising goal to surpass $50,000.

With the rise of cashless and online transactions, The Salvation Army is embracing new options to assist donors as they give back. Residents can now seamlessly contribute online at www.vicksburgkettle.org or at the kettles using a variety of options including credit cards, Apple Pay, Google Pay, PayPal, or Venmo.

“We appreciate every person who gives or volunteers to help during the Kettle Campaign,” Torgerson said. “We know that our community will help us ‘Love Beyond’ this holiday season as we seek to offer hope to those who need it most.”

Visit www.vicksburgkettle.org or call 601-456-4444 to donate or learn more about how to support The Salvation Army this Christmas and beyond.