Volunteers with the traditional red kettle and bell are a common sight in new jersey during the christmas season.
Volunteers with the traditional red kettle and bell are a common sight in New Jersey during the Christmas season.

Salvation Army sees increase in need as New Jerseyans battle inflation, rising food costs

In what has become a holiday tradition, the Salvation Army has officially kicked off its annual Red Kettle fundraising campaign across New Jersey – and is issuing a rallying cry for Americans to “Love Beyond”. 

Millions of people can find hope and help when we love beyond hunger, shelter, and disaster. This is the message of the organization.  

Thousands of New Jersey residents are still struggling to cope with the impacts of the ongoing pandemic, inflation, evictions, and job losses during this holiday season. During this Christmas season and beyond, the Salvation Army will provide service and love to those in need.   

As a result of the funds raised through the organization’s iconic red kettles, not only are gifts provided to children who would otherwise go without, but also food, shelter, and utility assistance is provided every day of the year. 

“Most people know The Salvation Army for our Red Kettles, our Angel Trees, and our strong presence during the holiday season, but we support local families and individuals all throughout the year,” said Major JongWoo Kim, Divisional Commander of the Salvation Army New Jersey Division. “Every dollar dropped into a red kettle is a small act of love that can have a huge impact for someone in need.” 

There has been an increase in the number of people signing up for Christmas assistance as well as an increase in requests for services such as food and shelter this year. As a result of the generosity of donors, the organization will be able to meet the immediate and long-term needs of so many people throughout the state.  

You can help The Salvation Army’s efforts to support the most vulnerable in New Jersey through a variety of ways:  

  • The best way to ensure services continue for those in your community is to sign up for a sustaining gift of $25 a month, which could be the difference between a family staying in their home or falling under the poverty line and living on the streets. 
  • Visit the red kettles at retail locations throughout New Jersey, including Hobby Lobby, JC Penney, Walgreens, Stop & Shop, Walmart, Sam’s Club, Bass Pro Shop, Cabela’s, Village ShopRites, Saker ShopRites, Acme, Kings Supermarkets, and Boscov’s.  
  • Donate digitally with Apple Pay, Google Pay, PayPal, and Venmo at any red kettle. 
  • Ask Amazon Alexa to donate by saying, “Alexa, donate to The Salvation Army,” then specifying the amount. 
  • Give any amount by texting “KETTLES” to 51555. 
  • Provide Christmas gifts to children of local families in need through The Salvation Army Angel Tree. 

Phil Stilton

Phil Stilton

Phil Stilton is the Editor and Publisher of Shore News Network, an independent digital news organization covering New Jersey, national politics, public policy, public safety, and community affairs. With years of experience reporting on local government, elections, law enforcement, and issues impacting residents throughout New Jersey, Stilton has built a reputation for delivering timely news, in-depth reporting, and accountability journalism.

As the founder of Shore News Network, Stilton oversees editorial operations, investigative reporting, and breaking news coverage while working closely with journalists, public officials, and community leaders. His reporting has covered municipal government, state politics, federal policy, public records investigations, emergency management, and major news events affecting local communities.

Stilton is committed to factual reporting, source verification, transparency, and providing readers with accessible, accurate information that helps them better understand the issues shaping their communities. Through Shore News Network, he continues to focus on delivering trusted news coverage and original reporting to audiences across New Jersey and beyond.

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