It’s time again for the Salvation Army Bells to ring. The primary way that The Salvation Army receives funding is through collection at kettles at Christmas time that are stationed in front of high-traffic area stores with volunteers ringing bells.

Ashley Allen, who directs The Salvation Army in Ellis County said, “When a volunteer bell ringer is stationed next to a kettle The Salvation Army receives about $38 per hour. When unattended, less than $2. Therefore, it is vital that the hundreds of volunteer hour slots be filled for the local Salvation Army to reach our goal this year of $40,000. The Salvation Army exists to meet human need wherever, whenever, and however we can without discrimination. Over 87% of all donations collected in Ellis County stay in Ellis County to aid individuals and families by helping to meet their physical, emotional and spiritual needs”

This year’s Christmas Kettle Campaign which began on Nov. 16 will conclude on Dec. 23. The bells will ring Monday through Saturday, from about 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. There are many locations that are participating, so there will be plenty of options for days and times.

Those individuals or groups interested in bell ringing can contact local volunteer coordinator Kyle Ermoian at [email protected] or call him at 785-635-5943.

— Submitted