Red Kettle Season: Salvation Army Ringers, Donations Sought

MCHENRY COUNTY, IL —The Salvation Army in McHenry County will be officially rolling out its iconic Red Kettles throughout the community starting Thursday.

This holiday season, the Salvation Army has a goal of raising $213,000 to help meet the needs of 6,500 to 7,500 people in McHenry County who are faced with financial pressures brought on by inflation, food insecurity, unstable housing and personal crisis, according to a news release.

"While Christmas can't cure all crises, it can restore people's hope and inspire them to unite and serve those who need it most," according to a news release from the Salvation Army.

Last year's campaign helped 6,178 people with resources such as emergency rent and utilities assistance; 12,876 bags of groceries; 3,078 Christmas gifts to 234 children; and 825 backpacks for low-income students.

"The holiday season brings unique challenges for many in McHenry County, but it also brings out the generosity of those who can help," said Captain Pablo and Captain Nancy Rivera, corps officers of The Salvation Army of Crystal Lake. "Every donation, regardless of size, stays local and is a step toward lifting someone out of hardship. Your support helps bring hope and stability to those who need it most — during Christmas and throughout the year."

The first official ring of the bell will take place at 11 a.m. on Thursday at the Crystal Lake Jewel. Volunteer ringers are needed at 47 Red Kettles at local retailers, including Jewel-Osco, Walmart, Hobby Lobby, Blain’s Farm & Fleet, and Sam’s Club, through December 24.

On average, volunteer bell ringers raise between $80 to $100 during a 2-hour shift, which can provide up to 200 meals for those in need.

The community is also invited to the Red Kettle Christmas Kick-Off event, which will run from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Boulder Ridge Country Club, Lake of the Hills. The event will feature light appetizers and refreshments, a silent auction and special guests. Attendees are invited to bring an unwrapped gift that will be shared with a local child through the Angel Tree Program.

Here are ways you can donate to or volunteer with the Salvation Army this holiday season:

• Donate online at salarmycl.org with a one-time donation or a $25 a month sustaining gift.
• Donate at Red Kettles with cash, coins, and checks or digitally with Apple Pay, Google Pay, PayPal, and Venmo.
• Raise support among your friends and in your online community by hosting a Virtual Red Kettle. Get started by visiting salarmycl.org and select “fundraise”
• Sign up to volunteer at a Red Kettle by visiting RegisterToRing.com or contacting us at

To learn more about how you can support the McHenry County community during the holidays, visit salarmycl.org.