JAMESTOWN, N.D. (NewsDakota.com) – Concerns centered around the COVID-19 pandemic may be the cause behind shortfalls in volunteer registrations at the Salvation Army.

The iconic Red Kettle bell-ringing initiative has been particularly impacted.

“As of today, we have over 1,100 hours of bell ringing to be filled,” Major Judy Lowder states.

For the Salvation Army, the pandemic has served as somewhat of a double-edge sword. The economic fallout of the pandemic has led to unprecedented increases in demand for service. Nationwide, the Salvation Army has seen 155% increases in the number of people served since March. At the same time, pandemic concerns have reduced volunteer registrations and will likely mean significant shortfalls in funds raised through the Red Kettle imitative.

The Red Kettle Campaign is the annual Christmas initiative that helps to fund the Salvation Army programs year-round. The goal in Jamestown this year is $151,000, and more bell-ringing volunteers are needed in order to meet this goal.

“Bell-ringing is a safe and fun activity for individuals and families, and companies could consider manning a kettle for a day or perhaps longer, “Lowder added. “Every kettle is outfitted with contactless digital pay options and a single shift is just a two hour commitment.”

Those interested in volunteering should visit registertoring.com for more information. You and your family could help save the Salvation Army rescue Christmas.