Need For Bellringers So Important In Oswego County That Salvation Army Will Even Accept Couch Potatoes

November 18, 2008 Contributor

Submitted article

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“Whether you have the energy and commitment to ring the bells in the cold or would rather sit comfortably on the living room couch, The Salvation Army of Oswego needs you.”

Captain Kenneth Hayes, Corps Commanding Officer in Oswego and Captain Kevin Brennan, Corps Commanding Officer in Fulton, are sending the message to the community that everyone is welcome to ring the bells – because the need is growing and resources are dwindling.

But, how can a couch potato ring the bells? “Virtually,” said Hayes. “It’s easy and fun. Just go to onlineredkettle.org and click on ‘Donate.’ It will bring you to a page that allows you to donate directly and to invite friends and associates to give, as well.”

“It doesn’t take much to make the difference,” he said. “Just a few dollars – five or ten – will grow because the virtual bellringer has provided people the opportunity to help. And, when you give on-line, it’s completely tax-deductible.”

The “virtual” kettle can become a company kettle or a team kettle, or, perhaps, a family kettle, said Brennan. “You can keep a tally of how much you or your team are able to raise and the site will automatically send a thank you to each of your donors.”

In the meantime, all those daring souls who weather the storm are still critically needed in the Oswego area. “Families are invited to ring as a team,” said the Captain. “It’s a great way to teach children the importance of giving back to the community and to care for those who are struggling economically. Or, companies may want to adopt-a-kettle for a day – allowing employees to ring for a few hours.”

To volunteer at those cold, windy sites, volunteers can call the local Salvation Army at 343-6491. They also can call The Red Kettle Center at 1-877-764-7259, or register on-line at RedKettles.org.

“Whether you take the couch potato route or ring the bells at a kettle site, we need the support of this community,” said Hayes. “And we thank you on behalf of the hundreds of people who come to our doors seeking assistance. You are making a real difference in their lives.”

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