The Red Kettle Campaign which has a goal of $79,600 reached 24.29 percent on Dec. 4. The campaign which runs through Dec. 24 is used to help The Salvation Army fund programs in Marshalltown, such as rent and utility assistance, food pantry and youth programming, throughout the year.

The overall holiday goal of $217,700 has reached 24.77 percent. The Red Kettle Campaign serves as The Salvation Army’s largest fundraising effort each year. As of Dec. 4, the campaign has fallen $14,707 behind the same time in 2020. The campaign is struggling to find enough bell ringers to help meet the goal which ends at 2 p.m. on Dec. 24.

Capt. Pam Kasten is optimistic the Marshall County community will come alongside The Salvation Army during this time, however, she reiterates how important reaching the goal by Dec. 24 is to the next fiscal year for The Salvation Army and its programs.

“We raise these funds during November and December to help the programs we operate year-round keep going. Those adults and children in our community who are dependent upon our programs are counting on us to reach the goal. This is the first time in eight years I have seen a goal fall behind this drastically,” said Kasten.

The Salvation Army is still looking for volunteer bell ringers to fill the remaining 688 hours. People can sign up to volunteer to ring the bell at the iconic red kettle throughout Marshalltown by visiting RegisterToRing.com. Those unable to visit RegisterToRing.com can call Kasten at The Salvation Army at 641-753-5236 to schedule a time.