Jingle, jingle, jingle, jingle. The Salvation Army kicks off its red kettle campaign on Friday, Nov. 27 with their shiny red kettles and cheerful volunteers. Tossing in a few coins is easy and the reward is always a smile and sometimes even a tiny candy cane.
An important piece of information – the money donated in the Valley stays right here in the Valley.
“This is our big annual fundraiser so we’re hoping for a good turnout in terms of volunteers and donations,” said Mallory Davenport, the service center coordinator for the Salvation Army.
According to Davenport, the money raised is used in any number of charitable programs right here in Sonoma including stocking and replenishing the local food pantries like F.I.S.H. – whose shelves are sorely depleted following the holidays – for the utility assistance program, and for basic needs like clothing vouchers redeemable at the Church Mouse and Bon Marche. The Salvation Army also runs a back-to-school program which supplies backpacks, school supplies and even free haircuts to children in need. Donations are also used to pay for a summer camp program for children.
“We sent 15 kids to residential camp last year. We’re hoping to send at least 20 kids this year,” said Davenport.
Sonoma City Councilmember Laurie Gallian will take the first shift at Sonoma Market on Friday morning. Other Salvation Army donation locations include Whole Foods, Safeway, Lucky, CVS/Long Drugs, as well as Sonoma Market and Glen Ellen Market.
Donations can also be made online by visiting onlineredkettle.org. To donate specifically for Sonoma, click “Find a kettle,” and enter the Mallory Davenport’s name.
Volunteer shifts are still available on Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturdays right up until Christmas Eve. To volunteer: call Mallory Davenport at 707.996.4761.
