Salvation Army To Ring Bells Around Milwaukee For 'Christmas In July'

MILWAUKEE, WI — If you plan on getting groceries from a Pick 'n Save around Milwaukee in early July, you may run into some Salvation Army bell ringers raising money by celebrating Christmas, the Christian organization announced Thursday.

Bell ringers and red kettles will be stationed at several of the grocery store's locations around Milwaukee, Oak Creek and West Allis from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on July 1-11. The stores include:

• Bayview, 250 West Holt Avenue (Milwaukee).
• Loomis, 3701 South 27 Street (Milwaukee).
• West Milwaukee, 2201 Miller Park Way (Milwaukee).
• Mega Mall, 8770 South Howell Avenue (Oak Creek).
• Oak Creek, 6462 South 27 Street (Oak Creek).
• Market Square, 6760 West National Avenue (West Allis).

The "Christmas in July" fundraising effort will culminate in "Salvation Army Night" at the July 11 Milwaukee Milkmen home game in Franklin against the Chicago Dogs. The night will feature pictures with Santa, kids activities, Christmas decorations and treats. Tickets start at $9 and can be purchased from the Milkmen's website.

The Salvation Army said money raised from the game and bell ringing will go toward its year-round community programs like the Emergency Lodge Homeless Shelter and meal programs. The organization said locally, 87 cents of every dollar raised goes toward programs and services around Milwaukee County.