Thanksgiving may be later than usual this year, but the local Salvation Army’s annual Kettle Campaign is right on schedule.
The bell ringing got underway last Saturday at the 10th Street Dillons store, where donations topped $1,000, said Anna Boy, coordinator of the campaign.
Ringers can now be found at both Dillons store and the Great Bend Walgreen’s, usually from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. They won’t be ringing bells in the Walmart Supercenter until the morning of Black Friday.
“People are giving this year,” Boy said. “It’s so deeply appreciated. There’s a tremendous need here in Barton County.”
The donors are usually pleased to learn that 100 percent of the money raised remains in the community, she added. Last year, the Salvation Army helped over 1,400 people in Barton County with things like clothing and housewares, a vision program, and financial assistance to people who had received utility disconnect notices or eviction notices. More than 475 backpacks filled with school supplies were given to children.
“I love my job,” Boy said. There are always a few surprises; last year someone dropped a gold band in a kettle, and one of the first donations last Saturday was a $500 check from a trust. But along with the large donations, Boy also loves to see smiling children dropping change in the kettles. “Those pennies add up.”

Kettle Pass
For people who seldom carry cash, the Salvation Army has ordered some “Kettle Passes,” said Dana Walls, manager of the Salvation Army Family Store at 2545 10th St. These pins will be available at the store by Black Friday, Nov. 29, for a $20 donation. People can wear them as they are out shopping, as a way to show they have already supported the Kettle Campaign.
While the Salvation Army does rely on some paid bell ringers, more volunteers are needed. In fact, people can volunteer at the store any time, Boy said. People are always needed to sort and hang clothing, for example.
Walls said the location Salvation Army is a United Way of Central Kansas agency. The Kettle Campaign is its only fundraiser of the year.
For more information on how to help, visit the store or call 620-792-4299.