This special feature focused on the Salvation Army Red Kettle Kickoff in Fall River, Massachusetts, highlighting the organization's enduring presence and critical community services. Speakers recounted the Salvation Army's history, including the tradition of kettle bells in front of local stores like McCor and Cherries, and its role as first responders during disasters and for families affected by burned homes. It was emphasized that at least 87 cents of every dollar donated directly supports services, assuring the public of their money's impact. Personal anecdotes underscored the Salvation Army's transformative effect, such as the story of a young woman who, after growing up in tough times in Fall River, credited the organization for her path to becoming a college graduate and premed student. The discussion also covered current initiatives, including a choice food pantry where community members can select items, and weekly hot meals provided to those experiencing homelessness. The segment concluded with an appeal for volunteers to assist with bell ringing for the Red Kettle campaign, encouraging community participation.
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Ever since I was a like a little little kid and we had downtown, it was always the kettle bells in front of mccor and cherries and we always gave always gave and my mother said that is the charity I will always give to because they're always there first responders they're there with people disasters with um burned homes they're right there to help everyone knitting sweaters they back in
0:25the 40s knitting sweaters and sending them to our soldiers Every dollar a donor gives at least 87 cents goes directly to the service. So the general public can rest assured that when they donate to the Salvation Army, their money will serve the purpose for which it was given.
0:56I've heard so many encouraging stories over there how the Salvation Army has turned people's lives around. Uh most poignant one was uh we when our did our celebration a few months ago 140 years in the city was a young lady who grew up in a Fall River in some very tough times uh in her childhood and she credited where she is in life to the to the Fall River Salvation Army. uh she's going to
1:21be a college graduate and and premed and she credits all everything from her involvement in our Salvation Army in Fall River.
1:29It is all across the board is the same story. How do working people make ends meet? Uh you know food is getting very expensive and in our food pantry it's a choice pantry. uh clients or members of the community are able to just walk in and select what they want in addition to what they can afford. And we think it's a great thing we're doing. Uh every week we serve a hot meal to the community cuz
1:59there are many who unfortunately are don't have a place to live.
2:03Anyone that wants to help, just please contact me. We'll get you here ringing the bell with the loudest bells and and have a good time. That's what it's all about. Just dress warm.