The weather may not be putting you in the holiday mood, but the Lincoln Salvation Army will try and do that on Friday as they celebrate their annual Tree of Lights Kettle Kick Off. Captain Kelsey Moreno says the event will be held at their headquarters at 26th and Potter from 5:30 to 7:00 p.m.
“The kickoff is a fun packed free family event featuring Santa, live music, face painting and balloon animals, crafts, free refreshments and a resource fair with partner agencies,” Moreno says. She says the Salvation Army brass ensemble will provide special Christmas music.
The Tree of Lights Campaign Goal for 2025 is $625,000. “Many people don’t realize that The Salvation Army of Lincoln is funded locally,” Moreno says. “The money raised in our community stays here to help our neighbors in need. This goal represents The Salvation Army’s ability to be ready to meet needs in Lincoln and Lancaster County not just during the holiday season, but all year long.”
Moreno says they expect to provide around 8,000 meals during the holiday season, and serve thousands of area children through the Angel Tree Program. On Saturday volunteers will begin ringing bells for the Red Kettle campaign. “The sound of the bell is a call to action, a reminder to donate, and we need people to ring them,” Moreno says.
Volunteers are asked to commit to a two hour shift at a location of their choice. “Donations to the red kettles ensure needs can be met in our community all year long.” To volunteer to ring the bell click here
Monetary donations can be dropped into area red kettles or dropped off at 2625 Potter St. Online giving can be done at lincolnredkettle.org. Those in need of a Christmas Meal, or toys for their children ages 0-12 can sign up at The Salvation Army. Call 402-474-6263 for application dates and times.