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With the return of the holiday season comes family, food, and annual traditions. For most, it’s a season of joy, but remember, it’s also the season of giving. Soon, the bells of Christmas will be ringing in our ears with none more important than those that accompany the Salvation Army’s iconic red kettle.

The Salvation Army in LaGrange has announced the return of its Red Kettle Campaign. The beloved tradition marks the start of the holiday season. Around Thanksgiving, bell ringers will be starting at local businesses like Walmart, Kroger and stores at the LaGrange Mall.

“Since its start in 1891, when a Salvation Army Captain used a crab pot to collect funds in San Francisco, the Red Kettle Campaign has become one of the world’s most recognized charitable efforts,” said William Atkins, Director for The Salvation Army in Troup County. “Funds raised through the Red Kettle Campaign in LaGrange will help us provide vital support, from meals to other critical social services, for those in our community who need it most.”

Money collected through the campaign helps support essential programs and services in the LaGrange and Troup County community, including providing food assistance, emergency utility aid, youth programs and disaster response.

“The money that is collected allows us to pay utility bills and continue operating with our food pantry,” Akins said.

The money also funds a youth summer camp, which is 100% free to the kids and families here in Troup County.

“The money collected here stays here in our community and is used for social services the following year,” Atkins said.

The bell-ringing campaign is certainly the most iconic fundraiser for the Salvation Army, but it’s also their biggest fundraiser.

“Whatever we collect during November and December of this year sets us up for next year. So the more money we collect this year, the more services we can provide next year,” Atkins said.

Last year, thanks to generous community support, The Salvation Army raised over $20,000 in Troup County. This year, they hope to double that amount to continue meeting the growing needs of the community.

“We are deeply grateful for the generosity of our community and the steadfast support from donors and corporate partners,” added Atkins. “Together, we can bring hope to those who need it most this Christmas season.”

The Salvation Army is seeking additional volunteers to ring bells. Atkins said typical shifts are for two hours, but they can ring as little or as long as they would like. They can go out for a few hours or spend a whole day.

Atkins said local organizations and companies also sponsor entire days, where they coordinate to schedule and cover a day ringing the bell.

Those interested in volunteering can sign up at registertoring.com or by emailing Cindy, Red Kettle Coordinator, at cindyw12.cw@gmail.com.

To donate or learn more about supporting The Salvation Army this holiday season, visit facebook.com/theSALaGrange or call (706) 884-6842.