Got bells?

The Salvation Army wants to know if you’ve… got bells. After all, it helps those in need in our community and it does a heart good. The Salvation Army has begun the 2009 Kettle Campaign and it needs more hands to ring the bells. In 2008, more than 4,700 families registered and received assistance during Christmas. The funds donated to the kettles provided those families with toys, clothing and the trimmings to enjoy a holiday meal in their own home. Those funds also sustain programs and services throughout the entire year.

“We need our community to come out and ring because ringing is caring,” said Maj. Art Penhale, corps officer. “The Kettles are our lifeline for Christmas fundraising. Without the donations, we would not be able to provide for the families who need us. We are encouraging families, civic groups, church groups and children to ring.”

Creativity also shows up at kettle sites. Bell ringers sing, play instruments, dress up as the Clauses and even have the accompaniment of pets.

Consider exchanging a little of your time this year as the annual bell ringing gets under way at Publix Supermarkets, Wal-mart/Neighborhood Markets, Edison Mall, Coconut Point Mall, Gulf Coast Town Center, Winn Dixie and Albertson’s. Help the Salvation Army help others this Christmas season by donating your time to serve as a bell ringer.

The red kettle campaign lasts until Dec. 24. Volunteers can sign on to ring bells during the day and early evenings from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. No bell ringing takes place on Sundays. The kettle campaign includes over 70 sites around the county, so it should be convenient to find a site near homes and places of businesses to help the army help others this year.

To do your part, call The Salvation Army at 278-1551. 