Despite Challenges, Salvation Army of McHenry Co. Reaches Red Kettle Campaign Goal

With less than a week before Christmas, The Salvation Army of McHenry County was experiencing a shortfall of $60,000 toward their Red Kettle Campaign goal.

With the December weather dipping down to wind chill factors 30 degrees below zero and with the accumulated snow, The Salvation Army leadership grew concerned about the safety of their volunteer bell ringers, according to a news release.

As a result, bell ringers who volunteered to assist the Salvation Army’s Red Kettle Campaign were moved to indoor locations or rescheduled, leading to fears of empty stores, lack of donations, and the possibility of falling short of the Salvation Army’s $200,000 red kettle fundraising goal, according to a news release.

“The Saturdays leading up to Christmas were the busiest times for stores and the busiest days for the Red Kettle Campaign,” said Captain Carol Lewis, administrator of The Salvation Army of McHenry County. “We really hoped and prayed that our decision would be the right one, and that our donors and people shopping the last week before Christmas would make the difference. And they certainly did.”

Thanks to donor generosity and dedicated volunteer bell ringers, by the campaign’s end on Christmas Eve, the organization surpassed its goal and collected over $213,000.

Captain Lewis stated that over 1,500 volunteers rang bells for this year’s red kettle campaign.

“We were blessed with joyful and determined bell ringers who were committed to help us reach our goal,” stated Lewis.

Donations provided by generous donors made the financial difference in surpassing the goal and providing for families in need in McHenry County, according to a news release.

“For us at the Salvation Army, it’s always encouraging to know that we have a supportive community behind us and with their support, we can make a difference,” Lewis said. “We have an awesome community, and I am grateful for their kindness and support.”

The funds raised during the Christmas season provide services to families in need throughout McHenry County all year-round including food, shelter, and case management.

Donations continue to be accepted at The Salvation Army of McHenry County, 290 West Crystal Lake Avenue, Crystal Lake, IL 60014 or online at www.salarmycl.org. For more information, please contact The Salvation Army of McHenry County at (815) 455-2769.