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The Salvation Army Kicks Off Kettle Campaign LUFKIN, TX – The Salvation Army kicked off the 2008 Red Kettle Holiday Campaign Friday today at Brookshire Brothers No. 1 on Chestnut Street in Lufkin with a news conference and ceremonial dropping of the first coins by advisory board members and store management. “As utility and food costs have risen, requests for assistance have increased just as dramatically,” says Kevin Langston, Salvation Army Advisory Board Chairman. “All of the funds collected stay here in our local community.” Red kettles will be on hand at more than a dozen locations in the Lufkin area, including grocery stores and retail establishments such as Brookshire Bros, Walgreen’s, Wal-Mart, Sam’s Club and Belk’s. From its original beginnings as a fundraiser started by a Salvation Army captain in San Francisco in 1891, the Red Kettle Campaign has grown into one of the most recognizable and important charitable campaigns in the United States. As part of the campaign, more than 25,000 Salvation Army volunteers spread throughout the country to ring bells daily and solicit spare change donations to the iconic red kettles from holiday shoppers. Last year, the funds helped The Salvation Army provide food, clothing, toys and other assistance to nearly 29 million Americans in need. The Salvation Army has been providing services to the East Texas area since 1939. The Salvation Army continues to show the love of God and practical concern for the needs of humanity without discrimination. Feeding the hungry, shelter for the homeless, crisis services, spiritual programs, Thrift Store and the Adult Day Center are just some of the many projects provided by The Salvation Army to the East Texas community. The Lufkin area Salvation Army Captains are Luis and Laura Melendez. -30- |