‘Tis the season for lights, cheer, and bells ringing and for some in our community, the bells that ring from volunteers standing at the familiar red kettles at major shopping outlet is not only a sign of Christmas, but a sign of hope throughout the year.

Janet Bryant is the coordinator for the Salvation Army’s Red Kettle Drive this Christmas and says why putting folded money or even coins in the kettle is so important to those in need in which the Salvation Army provides services.

“The Red Kettle Drive is for those in need in three counties,” she said. “The donations we receive are used all year long to help those in need pay utilities, rent, gas, provide food and clothing, help burnout victims, and provide gifts for children through the Angel Tree and gift cards for senior citizens.”

Janet said members of churches, civic organizations, businesses and more are volunteering their time to ring the bell, but there’s always a need for additional bell ringers.

“We started the drive on November 20, and we’ll go through December 23,” she said. “The shifts are usually two-hours long, and you can do this with a friend as long as the kettles are manned. We ring the bells at both entrances to Walmart and at Belk. Our kettles are set up from 10:00 a.m. 6:00 p.m. and rain or shine, we’re there.”

If you have a couple of hours to help you can contact Janet at the local Salvation Army store at 912-538-8203 or email her with the subject line “Kettle” at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

“We know it’s cold outside, but giving and volunteering can warm the hearts for those who serve as well as for those for whom we serve.”