The holiday season is heralded by the tinkling tones of bells ringing near the doors of local shopping spots in Brownwood. The iconic red kettle, almost always accompanied by a tub of free lollipops, waits to be filled with pocket change, and perhaps a dollar or two, as volunteers ring hand bells and greet shoppers with a smile.
Jeremy Tennison, the Kettle Coordinator for the local Salvation Army, is asking for volunteers from the community to keep the tradition going this year. “We can’t do it without our volunteers,” Tennison said. “People can’t always donate money, but they can donate a little time to help ring the bells. Without volunteers, we can’t fill the kettles.”
Almost 90% of the money donated into the kettles is used locally to fund the soup kitchen, which serves lunch Monday through Friday, as well as helps the Salvation Army in Brownwood to provide emergency utility and lodging assistance, donate heaters and coats to those in need, and even provide prescription assistance when funds are available. “The money we raise during the holidays determines what we can do,” said Tennison.
The Salvation Army in Brownwood is currently scouting for bell ringers to volunteer as often as they can during the holiday season, from November 25th through December 24th. Bells will ring from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. and volunteers can select times that best fit their schedule, with shifts from only an hour or longer if they choose. Volunteers are welcomed to have fun while encouraging donations.
“We always ask everyone to smile and greet. We have some musicians who come play music while they volunteer at the kettles. Sometimes volunteers will wear costumes,” said Tennison. “Whatever we can do to get people to donate.”
To contact Jeremy Tennison for volunteering opportunities, call the Kettle Phone: 325-203-6253. Bell Ringers will be placed in one of six locations at Walmart, United Supermarket, Kroger’s, and Brookshire’s.
