Augusta’s Salvation Army Surpasses Red Kettle Goal

The Salvation Army of Augusta is celebrating the success of its 2023 Red Kettle Campaign.  The organization announced today that more than $235,000 was raised over the holidays, surpassing this year's goal by $10,000.

Major Jonathan Raymer, Area Commander for the Salvation Army of Augusta, said the organization is grateful to the community.  "We are incredibly blessed to be able to make a difference in other people's lives every single day, and a big part of that blessing is doing it in the Augusta community," said Raymer.

The annual Red Kettle Campaign is the Salvation Army of Augusta's largest fundraising event of the year.  Volunteers ring the bells outside stores and other businesses in hopes of raising enough money to continue funding services offered to the area's homeless, as well as preventing homelessness in Augusta.

Derek Dugan, Director of Development at the Salvation Army of Augusta, said the organization placed 164 formerly homeless individuals into permanent housing during the fiscal year that just ended in October.  It also helped 697 people stay in housing through casework and financial assistance, thanks to funds primarily raised through the Red Kettle campaign.

"Last year, The Salvation Army of Augusta provided over 28,000 nights of shelter and provided over 73,000 meals at our Soup Kitchen," said Dugan.  He added, "The Red Kettle campaign reaching its goal provides a great start for the Salvation Army being able to serve so many in need in 2024."

While the Red Kettle campaign is the largest fundraiser for the Salvation Army of Augusta, monetary donations are needed throughout the year to make a difference in the lives of many.

Visit www.donateaugusta.com to make a donation.  Volunteers are needed as well.

Nearly 30 million Americans across the country receive assistance from the Salvation Army in the way of shelter, food, relief for disaster victims, assistance for the disabled, clothing and other social services every year.

While giving back to the community is great to do any time of year, it seems the holiday season is when we really think about it. Now here we are, already in November, with Thanksgiving and Christmas coming up quickly.  If you're thinking of ways you can give back this holiday season, read on for some volunteer opportunities in Augusta.

There are many ways you can volunteer and help out the community this holiday season.  Many organizations need additional help this time of year to help families who are experiencing hard times.  And also, as the weather gets colder, providing resources for those who are experiencing financial hardships or homelessness.

Volunteer opportunities vary depending on the organization.  Some need help preparing food for holiday meals.  Others are in need of help serving the meals.  And then there are other opportunities to help raise funds or collect donations.  You can often volunteer for short periods of time, while other places ask for year-round volunteers.

Volunteering is a great way to help those who are less fortunate.  You can make a difference in their lives in ways that you may never see.  But volunteering feels good.  It's great to know that you can contribute to your community and bring a smile or relief to a family in need.

Being a volunteer is a great reminder to be thankful this time of year.  If you've been tremendously blessed, it feels good to help spread that love and blessing to others.

While volunteering, you also get to meet a variety of people.  It's a great chance to step out of your usual circle and meet new people and learn about them.  You never know who you might meet.  Not only could you have an impact on people right here in the community, you might also meet someone who changes your life.

If you've ever had the chance to hear stories from people who have dealt with challenges, you may know what I mean.  Hearing about the struggles these people have had to overcome can greatly impact you.  It's an eye-opening experience.  Families who've dealt with job losses, sickness, loss... It's a powerful reminder of how strong we are, and how blessed we are.

You could make new friends, learn new skills, and learn more about the community. Overall, volunteering is a heartwarming experience for all involved.  You have the chance to give back and make a difference right here in your community. See more about the benefits of volunteering HERE.

If you've got some time this holiday season, check out some of these opportunities.

If you have an opportunity to add to the list, please email Cody@Kicks99.com.

According to their website, Augusta Rescue Mission hosts a Thanksgiving Meal on-site each year.  They ask for help with set up, food prep, serving, dishwashing, giveaways, and clean up.  You can fill out a volunteer form on their website (space is limited and they only need around 15 people per shift).

Thanksgiving Day Meal Outreach - November 23, 2023

In addition to their meal outreach, ARM has a new Fresh Start Laundry ministry you can learn more about HERE.

Golden Harvest Food Bank needs volunteers for their Dining Service at the Master's Table Soup Kitchen. Volunteers must be 13 years old to service food, and 18 years old for meal prep.

Get more information on volunteering HERE.

The Salvation Army's First Stop Center is in place to help people in need of assistance.  They can meet with multiple non-profit agencies for assistance with utilities, housing, homeless prevention services, legal services, employment services, and more.

This organization has volunteer opportunities throughout the year, and around the holidays.