Tinkling bells are a familiar sound at the holidays. Maybe its a reminder of what makes a wonderful life. Maybe its bells on reindeer as a jolly old man delivers gifts to boys and girls of all ages.
For Captains Jason and Michelle Moore, it means Red Kettle season has begun.
Mayor Bob Brown joined Salvation Army Captains Jason and Michelle Moore in proclaiming Nov. 22 as the official kickoff day for the area Red Kettle Campaign at Bronaugh Park in downtown Lufkin.
“This a vital part of giving in Angelina County and we are very, very pleased to be included in the program,” Brown said.
The ceremony included the reading of a proclamation, prayer by area pastor Eddie Music and live music by Lea and Josh Medders.
“I just want to say thank you to all of you here,” Capt. Jason Moore said. “We’re just so happy. I’m filled with joy right now because I feel that God is really good to us. If there is anything that we could ever do for you, I hope that you know that the Salvation Army has arms wide open for any person that needs a helping a hand, that needs to feel the love of God.”
The short ceremony means a lot to the leaders of the local Salvation Army chapter, Capts. Jason and Michelle Moore.
“When we talk about the Sal Army we are all part of it,” said Capt. Michelle Moore. “When one gives, it’s like we all give. When one family is helped, it’s like we were all helped. Its many lives that are touched.”
This year, they hope to raise $75,000 to help area residents.
“[The funds go] to everything that the army does,” Capt. Michelle said. “It stays local, whether its providing three meals a day and a bed at the shelter, the adult day center, it helps families facing disasters, or providing a hot meal in the soup kitchen.”
It also benefits programs like the Angel Tree which can be found at area retailers, which allows businesses and individuals an opportunity to adopt a child or an elderly person to help provide what they need and want during the holiday season.
To make a donation in a red kettle, stop by area retailers Brookshire Brothers, Kmart, Hobby Lobby and Belks. Other locations will be added beginning on Black Friday.
Opportunities to volunteer for ringing the bells or for making a donation are available by contacting the Lufkin office at (936) 634-5132 or by visiting the office at 412 S. 3rd Street.
To donate online to the Texas Forest Country Living’s kettle for the Salvation Army, click here.
