My City December 2022

need volunteers to hit this year’s goal of $650,000.” Each dollar dropped into a kettle goes right back into the com munity through Salvation Army programs.The money made during just two hours of volunteer time can often feed a family of four for a week. Started by Salvation Army Captain Joseph Mc Fee in 1891 as a way to feed the poor citizens of San Francisco, the Salvation Army Red Kettle promotion has become synonymous with the Christmas Spirit of Giving. Who hasn’t given a dollar or two to the Red Kettle here and there? Even young children are eager to give whatever change they have. Each year, the Salvation Army serves more than 25 million people across America by providing meals, shelter, clothing and Christmas gifts to those in need. In Genesee County, the Salvation Army provides emergency assistance, food assistance, substance abuse rehabilita tion, youth empowerment and more, and every dollar donated helps support their programs. “My father was a big proponent of giving back to the community,” says Gaines, whose father passed five years ago, “and it just so happens that the kickoff happens on his birthday this year, so it became the perfect opportu nity to pass the torch to the third generation. It will be a cool moment and I’m sure it would make him happy to share this honor with his granddaughter.” This year, take (at least) two hours to ring the bell and help the Salvation Army in their mission of giv ing. After all, every unmanned Red Kettle represents a missed opportunity. Visit registertoring.com to choose a day, time, date and location that works best for you. You can also call Lydia at 810.600.4497 to sign up via phone. Remember, every two-hour shift is also a chance to win the Gaines Jewelry $2,000 gift card! Grab a bell, put on your best Mr. or Mrs. Claus costume and get ringing! David Gaines can’t wait to get his hands on a bell this season. “Oh, yes!” he says. “I plan on it.” u

“It’s a great honor to help celebrate the beginning of this season’s bell-ringing efforts.” David Gaines

(L-R) SELINA GAINES KIRK, SALVATION ARMY MAJOR RANDY HELLSTROM, AND DAVID GAINES

19