With a few days days remaining in its 2025 Red Kettle Campaign, The Salvation Army of Augusta is urging community members to donate as the organization works to close a $100,000 gap before Christmas Eve.
The Red Kettle Campaign is The Salvation Army’s largest fundraiser of the year and supports programs and services provided throughout the year in the Augusta area. Donations collected through the red kettles remain local, according to the organization.
Funds raised through the campaign help support the Center of Hope, the Augusta area’s only emergency overnight shelter. The Center of Hope also operates a soup kitchen that serves about 200 meals daily.
Over the past four years, caseworkers at the center have helped more than 400 individuals experiencing homelessness secure stable housing, including women and children, according to a press release from The Salvation Army of Augusta.
In the past year, The Salvation Army has also assisted more than 900 local residents through its rent and utility assistance program, helping families avoid homelessness and maintain basic services.
“The Red Kettle represents so much more than a simple donation—it represents hope for families right here in our community,” said Major Jonathan Raymer, area commander for The Salvation Army of Augusta. “Every dollar dropped into the kettle helps provide shelter, meals, case management, and stability for our neighbors who need it most. With just days left in this campaign, we are asking the CSRA to show up in a big way.”
Community members can donate at red kettles located at participating stores throughout the Augusta area, The Salvation Army of Augusta
Each kettle also includes a QR code for mobile donations, and contributions can be made online through a virtual red kettle at donateaugusta.org.
The organization is also seeking volunteers to ring bells during the campaign’s final days. Individuals, families, businesses and civic groups can sign up at ringforhope.org.
The Salvation Army said the outcome of the Red Kettle Campaign will directly affect how many people it is able to serve in the coming year.
For more information about The Salvation Army of Augusta, visit SalvationArmyAugusta.org
