NEW CASTLE —
Looking to warm up someone’s Christmas? Well, the kettle is on.
The Salvation Army of New Castle launched its annual Red Kettle Christmas Campaign on Saturday morning at Shop N Save in Westgate Plaza.
Nationally, the initiative that finds bell-ringers and red buckets on sidewalks in all sorts of weather, accepting donations for families in need, doesn’t begin until Thanksgiving. But local Captains Geoff and Mari Swires wanted to get an early start.
“This is our biggest fundraiser,” Geoff Swires said. “About 60 percent of our budget comes from the kettle campaign, which is why it’s so very important.
“We’re also seeing increased need. Last year, there were three times as many families needing help as there were the previous years. That’s why we wanted to get out a little early, so we can try to help as many families as possible.”
Saturday’s kickoff was hosted by Dan Falcone, owner of the Westgate Plaza Shop N Save. Helping to set the mood were members of the Union Middle School fifth- and sixth-grade choir who, under the direction of John Westcott, sang a variety of Christmas tunes.
Falcone provided cupcakes for the group at the conclusion of its performance.
“We want to thank Dan Falcone,” Swires said. “He helps the Salvation Army throughout the year, and we’re grateful he allowed us to have our kettle campaign kickoff here at Shop N Save.”
For anyone else who’d like to help, the obvious avenue is to donate whenever you see a red kettle. However, the Salvation Army also is looking for volunteers to serve as kettle bell-ringers. Individuals or organizations may call the Salvation Army at (724) 652-7921 for more information.
You also can give or collect donations online. Through www.OnlineRedKettle.org, supporters can create a virtual red kettle to raise donations from friends and family. Last year, more than $1.7 million was raised through Online Red Kettles to support the Christmas campaign. In addition, through Dec. 24, donors can text the word “GIVE” to 80888 to make a $10 donation to the Red Kettle Campaign.
The kettle campaign traces its roots to 1891. Now, more than 25,000 Salvation Army workers and volunteers spread throughout the country to ring bells and solicit spare change donations to the iconic red kettles from holiday shoppers. In 2011, the campaign raised a record $147.6 million nationwide, helping The Salvation Army provide food, clothing, toys and other assistance to 30 million Americans in need.
(Email: d_irwin@ncnewsonline.com)
Union
Related Photos
-
The Union choir members offer a salute to the holidays at the conclusion of one of their songs. Dan Irwin
Related Links
Discussion
Photo Gallery, Story: Salvation Army kicks off Kettle campaign
- Union
-
-
Tim Kolodziej: For the Class of 2013, there’s no looking back — promise?
Congratulations, Class of 2013! You made it. Your last history lesson is history. Your last final — final. The unsure children who once needed help to climb the school bus steps will now stride confidently across the stage to receive their diplomas.
-
Former school employee convicted of sex charges
A one-time employee of the Union school district has been convicted of sex-related charges involving a former student. A jury convicted Ronald Dougalewicz Jr., 40, of New Castle of aggravated indecent assault on a child less than 16, indecent assault, two counts of corruption of minors and possession of child pornography.
-
Vo-tech budget loses support
Now there are only two. That is the number of school districts that have approved the Lawrence County Career and Technical Center budget for the 2013-14 year after Union board’s withdrew support this week.
-
High School Basketball: Fadden resigns as Union girls coach
Brian Fadden has resigned as Union High girls basketball coach. The resignation was approved during Monday night’s school board meeting.
-
No tax hike in Union school budget
The Union Area School Board has introduced a $10.6 budget with no tax increase. If the $10,585,494 spending plan is approved, it will be the third year without a tax increase in the district. The property tax is at 14.42 mills.
-
WPIAL Baseball Playoffs: ‘Missed opportunities’ end season for Union
The book is closed on the 2013 Union High baseball team. Those interested in reading the last chapter should turn to the page titled, “Missed Opportunities.” There were plenty of them in the Scotties 5-1 loss to Our Lady of the Sacred Heart in the WPIAL Class A quarterfinals at Pullman Park in Butler.
-
High School Basketball: Union grad set to coach Kennedy Catholic girls
Chris Mele is taking his 20 years of coaching experience to Kennedy Catholic High School. Mele, a Union High graduate, was announced yesterday as the head coach of the Lady Golden Eagles basketball team.
-
Photo Gallery: Check out our images from the Union High prom!
The pomp. The pageantry. The pairs. The pictures. Yes, it’s prom season once again in Lawrence County and the New Castle News is on hand to document all the fun and excitement. We hope you enjoy our photo galleries! Today, Union High.
-
Union hires principal
Michael Ross has been named the new principal at Union High School. Ross was hired during a special meeting Tuesday night.
-
Union still undecided on tax hike
The Union school board is hoping to avoid a tax increase next year but has not decided yet. During Wednesday’s meeting, Samantha Charles, district business manager, provided an overview of funding for the 2013-14 school year, based on Gov. Tom Corbett’s proposed budget.
- More Union Headlines
-
