Major Scott Peabody, commanding officer and Pastor at the Salvation Army of Bethlehem, announced the start of this year’s ‘red kettle’ campaign Nov. 26 at one of the several locations in the Bethlehem area, Main Street in front of the Moravian Book Shop.

The familiar bell ringer next to the red kettle hanging from a tripod has become synonymous with the holiday season. According to Peabody, funding collected during this singular effort provides a “great portion of our funding for the year.”

The local Salvation Army helps an estimated 50,000 people year-round with services like utility and rental assistance, rehabilitation centers, the provision of food and dinners, and seniors’ services. “We’re meeting the human need without discrimination,” says Peabody.

He says, “we’re meeting whatever needs are out there,” and he notes “it can happen to anybody.” He says Bethlehem residents and businesses come through all of the time.

Longest serving Salvation Army advisory board members, Sandy Dale and Ron Bauer, joined Peabody in announcing this year’s collection effort. Regular board meetings help the Salvation Army determine the needs in the community.

Contributions during red kettle collections and throughout the year may be made through Apple Pay, Google Pay, and at the 521 Pembroke Road Salvation Army of Bethlehem facility. Call 610-867-4681 with any questions.

Other Bethlehem area red kettle locations are at Christkindlmarkt, Garrity’s Valley Farm Market, Walmart on PA 191, ShopRite on Freemansburg Avenue in Bethlehem Township, and Walgreen’s on Schoenersville Road.