In the blink of an eye, or in this case the tinkle of a tiny, high-pitched bell, the holidays are upon us. Surely you know the bell I’m referring to. Diminutive, but with an indefatigable presence; and easy to sense even before the automatic doors of your local grocery store open, revealing the red kettle and red-vested Salvation Army bell-ringer.
Many of us will pause to deposit spare change. Out of the goodness of our hearts? Usually. (Or, on occasion, perhaps to garner a nanosecond of peace and quiet?)
Just recently, I gained a fresh perspective on this seasonal bell-ringing rite, directly from Salvation Army staff. In 1891, “Captain McFee,” seeking to raise money to feed Christmas dinner to the poor, placed a collection kettle on a San Francisco wharf. This simple tradition grew into a nationwide effort that has expanded far beyond a holiday meal.
There are 10 local Salvation Army programs, including The West Women’s & Children’s Shelter (for women and children fleeing domestic violence), and S.A.F.E.S. (an emergency day shelter for women). These programs, providing food, clothing, shelter and support, are sustained by the coins carelessly tossed into that red kettle – spare change that really adds up: Last year’s Salvation Army Cascade Division bell-ringers collected over $2 million dollars!
So, the next time you hear that persistent pealing plea, instead of cringing, greet that bell-ringer with a smile. Envision your contributions, however round and small, directly bringing help to those in need. I know I will! Or, become a bell-ringer yourself. The Salvation Army is always in need of volunteers. To learn more, visit www.tsacascade.org.
Submitted by Kandy

December 1st, 2008 | Category: Metro Parent