Amazing Bells Ringers and Red Kettles Are Back in SE Minnesota

It's time to find those quarters in your car and out of our couch cushions because starting Friday, November 10th, 2023, the bells are ringing in Rochester, Minnesota!  

If You Hear Some Ringing In Your Ears, Don't Worry, It's Just The Red Kettles for The Salvation Army in Rochester, Minnesota

One of my favorite early memories with my kids was ringing bells together for The Salvation Army.  My daughter brought her violin and played Christmas songs for the shoppers as we stood next to the red kettle by the softener salt.  It was an amazing time but it was also phenomenal to see people extremely generous and thankful to have us there, standing by the red kettle.

The Salvation Army in Rochester has kicked off the bell-ringing season!  According to the registertoring.com website, red kettles are at various locations in Rochester, Byron, Stewartville, and Chatfield this year.

How to sign up to ring bells for The Salvation Army in Southeast Minnesota

If you haven't signed up yet to ring bells, don't wait!  There are lots of locations and hours available and it is extremely fun and easy.  Here's a few details from the Salvation Army that explains how it works:

Simply sign up for a date, time, and location that’s convenient for you. A kettle and bell will be at your location when you arrive. If there is already a ringer there, just let them know you are the next scheduled volunteer and take over for them. Then, start ringing with a smile. Wish shoppers a “Merry Christmas” and thank people for their donation.

Where Does The Money Go That Is Collected at the Red Kettles in Southeast Minnesota?

One question that I saw a few people asking on Facebook was, "where is this money even going from the red kettles".

According to the Salvation Army website, each dollar and coin that is put in the red kettle is going right back into our community.  As you are probably aware, this past year has been extremely challenging for many families.  I'm sure you've noticed the increase in the price of groceries as well as other items that we need to pay for just to live.  For some families, that increase in cost is too much and they are not able to afford the basics.  Sadly, the number of people needing assistance has increased dramatically and every penny, nickel, dime, and quarter are needed.

What's your favorite holiday tradition?

One of our family traditions has been ringing bells and I look forward to spending a few hours with my kids again this Christmas season ringing for a cause.  What's your favorite tradition during the holidays?  I'd love to hear about it.  Send me a message on my Facebook page - Jessica On The Radio and on Instagram.

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