New York: For more than 100 years, the Salvation Army has come to the rescue for millions of families and individuals through its iconic holiday Red Kettles. Now, COVID-19 has crippled that effort, with less foot traffic, tourists, and kettles at retail. New Yorkers are facing severe food insecurity and the greatest need for shelter, helping pay utilities – and putting toys under the tree – than seen in decades. Refusing to let anything stand in its way of meeting that need, the Salvation Army.
is making it easy to give and stand as a beacon of hope. The Giant Red Kettle was lit in Times Square for the week of December 1. It will then travel to other locations in NYC, returning to Times Square for Christmas. Salvation Army Brass Band is on hand to bring holiday cheer. Salvation Army Mobile Canteen provides coffee and other beverages along with food items to the needy.
A feat of engineering, the 7’ 6” aluminum Red Kettle hangs from a stand measuring 32’ tall and 16’ wide, with built-in LED lights that illuminate and sparkle periodically and when donations are made via text: text GiantRedKettle to 41444.
The Salvation Army Greater New York Division operates more than 100 community and social-service programs, serving more than one million people a year, regardless of race, religion, nationality, or sexual orientation. Since COVID-19, it has served over six million meals.
For more information, visit salvationarmyny.org.
