(La Porte, IN) - The La Porte Salvation Army has begun its annual Christmas fund raising drive.  Kettles began ringing Monday at Al’s Supermarket and the Post Office.

Captain Chris Karlin said kettles will be placed at Kroger and Walmart within the next few days.  He said the goal for the kettle drive this year is $70,000.

According to Karlin, the number of kettles placed this year is down from previous years because of a shortage of volunteers, reluctant to ring the bell due to fears about contracting coronavirus.  He hopes to make up the difference with virtual kettles made available for the first time this year.

Anyone can sign up for a virtual kettle which accepts donations online and automatically transmits the funds electronically to the Salvation Army.