(Michigan City, IN) - The Salvation Army of Michigan City is ready to kick off another Red Kettle season with a Christmas Campaign theme of “Love Beyond Christmas.”

 

The annual kick-off is scheduled November 12th at McDonald’s at 3507 Franklin Street from 7am to 10am with a short program at 8am.  The public is invited to stop by and join in the festivities.

 

“We continue our theme of ‘Love Beyond’ this Christmas as we ask the Michigan City community to ‘love beyond’ circumstances,” said Major Dale Simmons, who oversees The Salvation Army of Michigan City, along with his wife, Major Becky Simmons.

 

Last year, The Salvation Army provided holiday assistance to 1,369 local children.  Simmons said he expects that number to be higher this year since many people continue to struggle in the post-pandemic economy.

 

“Over the past year, the number of households seeking assistance has continued to increase due to the high cost of groceries, rent, and utilities,” he said.

 

The Salvation Army has set a goal to raise $235,000 during the Christmas campaign.  The funds will help provide food and toys to hundreds of local families during the holidays and will also support year-round services including a food pantry, utility assistance, diaper bank, free clothing closet, summer camp and case management.

The Lubeznik family, which owns the local McDonald’s restaurants, will donate proceeds from coffee sales at all three Michigan City locations during the Red Kettle Kick Off to The Salvation Army to help support the campaign.

 

The Salvation Army is seeking volunteer bell ringers to help meet the need this season.  Kettle season officially begins on November 8th and continues through December 24th.

 

Volunteers can ring a bell any time Monday through Saturday between 10am and 7pm at several locations throughout Michigan City by signing up online (CLICK HERE) or by calling The Salvation Army at (219) 874-6885 ext. 1003.