Salvation Army Gets Holiday Help from Easley Firefighters

It's hard to imagine the holidays without thinking of crowded mall parking lots, busy stores, and the stress of finding that perfect gift. But it's also hard to picture the holidays without hearing a ringing bell and seeing the distinctively red kettle reminding us of the true spirit of the holiday- giving.

Firefighters spent six days last week volunteering for the Salvation Army Red Kettle Campaign in front of Walmart in Easley.

"We raised $5,800 this year," Fire Chief Butch Womack said. In past years the fundraiser has been more successful but this year they had a string of rainy days to contend with.

"Once the sun came out it really jumped up," Womack said.

Participating in the Red Kettle drive is not only important because of the money the department raises for the Salvation Army but also because of the money they save the organization.

"We really do two things for the Salvation Army, we raise the money but we also save them the money of paying someone to stand outside the store," Womack said.

The annual Red Kettle drive collects donations that the Salvation Army will use to fund Christmas dinners, clothing and gifts for the needy, according to their website. Each year the Easley Fire Department does their part to help the organization accomplish its goal of helping those in need.