The Salvation Army Bread of Life Assistance Center’s annual Red Kettle Campaign will kick off today with a very different look from past years due to the COVID-19 situation, organizers said.

The familiar bellringers return but safety will be the primary concern when it comes to these volunteers, who will be required to wear masks and gloves and stand at least 6 feet away from the kettle, Director Tara Blagec said.

In addition, volunteers are asked to go to https://www.redshieldtoolkit.org/Contents/Details/183314 to review the national training video.

“We are in the U.P., so most will have a mask and gloves on anyway, even on those warmer days, but volunteers will also be sanitizing their kettles every morning and evening,” Blagec said.

But Blagec said she remains positive about the campaign and donations this season because the community knows what “Doing the Most Good” is about. “Our community has never let us down,” she said.

The Salvation Army Bread of Life Assistance Center also has set up a few different ways to give back —

— Virtually: A “virtual” kettle has been set up online for those who do not feel comfortable donating in person. Go to donate.salvationarmywi.org and click on virtual kettles/angel trees, then scroll down to Dickinson County Bread of Life Center.

— Choosing to adopt a child/family in the Angel Tree Program: Tags are hanging from two trees in Walmart or thosee looking to participate can call the office and request to sponsor a child or a family. This Christmas program strives to ensure that resources are available for families that need a “hand up” during the holidays. With increased need being seen, the Salvation Army will continue to strive to be good stewards with its resources. By working alongside others who also provide Christmas assistance and ensuring assistance is not duplicated, more families can be assisted.

— Walmart Registry for Good: Go online to Walmart.com’s Registry for Good and enter 49801. Choose items to be purchased. Shipping is free and items are delivered directly to the local agency.

Donations can be mailed as well to 145 Roseland St., Kingsford, MI 49802.

Those interested in taking a turn as a bellringer can call 906-221-7054.