Save The 2022 Red Kettle Campaign

With the mercury set to plunge to single digits with wind chills below zero the next few days, The Salvation Army of Fort Smith is gearing up for an increase in demand for their services, while at the same time missing the traditional last-minute push for donations to their Red Kettle campaign to help cover essential costs.

“We have our facility open at 504 N. D Street for families that need to get out of the cold,” said Captain Hargis. "We are urging families without shelter to come in. Hours of operation will be 8:00am – 5:00pm. We have hot meals and drinks to warm you up too. With these frigid temperatures, it’s extremely dangerous to be exposed to the elements for even 10 minutes, therefore we also can’t have bellringers out to help with the final push of the Red Kettle campaign.”

The arctic conditions coincide with the end of the famous Red Kettle season on Christmas Eve, which will make conditions impossible for volunteer bellringers at retail locations. “The Salvation Army in Fort Smith depends on holiday giving for more than 15% of our annual operating budget, which covers providing shelter, feeding the hungry, providing emergency financial assistance, youth programs, and disaster response,” said Captain Bradley Hargis.

“So far, we are at 88% to our goal of $140,000 for kettle fundraising, so we need the community’s help. Your gift goes to helping those in need right here in the River Valley. We are preparing to take in those without shelter, offer a hand to those at risk of losing heat, serve food to those in need of a meal, and offer a listening ear to those in need of emotional and spiritual care.” Said Captain Hargis. With rising inflation and lingering effects from the pandemic, The Salvation Army in Fort Smith has seen a huge increase in its emergency services this year.

In addition to the retail locations, donors can also give online at www.salvationarmyfs.org. The Salvation Army is a 501c (3) organization, meaning donations are tax-deductible, something to consider as we near the end of the year.

For any questions related to The Salvation Army’s services, or to donate by phone or in person, please call 479-783-6145 or visit the local office at 301 N. 6th Street in downtown Fort Smith. Additional information can be found on our webpage at salvationarmyfs.org.