Working through trials
Red Kettle donations down by 50% this season
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It has been a challenging year for The Salvation Army in Lewistown.
Red Kettle donations are down by 50%, as the needs for gifts, food and financial assistance increase. Throw in government-mandated restrictions on public gatherings and a snowstorm, and it would be easy to give up and plan for next year.
Yet, the Lewistown Corps has been engaged in a variety of activities in an effort to "Rescue Christmas" for the vulnerable in Mifflin County.
"It has been a tremendously challenging year when it comes to fundraising," said Major Fred Clarke, Lewistown Corps Officer. "We've only been able to consistently put up a red kettle stand at Walmart, and we've had trouble recruiting bell ringers, too, as a result of COVID-19, even though we put in many safeguards to protect the public and our workers. We'll be $30,000 under budget by the time we finish Red Kettle season on Thursday. That's going to really hurt."
While the Red Kettles are mostly associated with Christmas, the money raised from them supports Salvation Army programs year-round.
"One saving grace came yesterday," Major Fred said, "when a man gave us a $5,000 check. That was a blessing that came right on time. He wanted to remain anonymous. We are just grateful for him."
When it comes to gifts for the children, the community was especially generous with donating new toys for the Lewistown Corps to distribute to children in need. In addition, for the first year ever, The Salvation Army distributed new toys from Centre County's Toys for Tots program, too.
"We spent three days handing everything out," said Major Janet Clarke, who runs the Lewistown Corps with her husband. "Due to COVID, everything is contactless now, so parents drove up, called us, and we brought out their bags of toys for their children and gave them holiday meals, too. We used safe distancing and wore masks and PPE's." In all, 464 children received toys and nearly 700 meals were distributed between Saturday, Monday and Tuesday.
"We are so grateful to the individuals, families, businesses and community organizations who stepped up to be a blessing to the children," said Major Janet Clarke. "The pandemic has left families struggling financially. Thanks to the generosity of so many, children will have gifts to open on Christmas morning and food on their table."
"We've had great community partners," said Major Fred Clarke. "Two local fire companies had a big toy drive for us and made a cash donation. Three local radio stations raised just under $6,000 for us through a Seven Mountains Media friendly on-air battle of the morning shows. We couldn't do what we do without the kind-heartedness of local businesses and people who want to do their part. We are hurting for funds this year, but we are trusting God to make up the difference."
The Clarkes say the need has been constant since the pandemic, particularly for food. They don't want to ever turn anyone away.
"We want to make sure we can help our neighbors who are hurting," said Major Fred
Clarke.
"If we don't have it, we'll figure it out," echoed his wife.
If you'd like to help The Lewistown Salvation Army make its Red Kettle goal, donate online at http://salarmy.us/lewistownredkettle.