Local News

Salvation Army to start annual Red Kettle campaign Nov. 13

KINGSFORD -- The Salvation Army's iconic red kettle and trademark bell have long been symbols of the holiday season, representing the spirit of giving and the joy of helping others.

The familiar sound of bells will soon be heard outside area businesses as the Dickinson County Salvation Army prepares to bring the community together in support of neighbors in need.

The 2026 Red Kettle campaign officially kicks off Friday, Nov. 13, and will continue through Christmas Eve, Dec. 24, with organizers calling on residents, businesses, schools and community groups to help fill more than 1,000 bell-ringing shifts.

"The kettle donations during these six weeks carries the Salvation Army throughout the entire year," said Red Kettle Coordinator Michelle Martens, who is entering her fifth year overseeing the campaign.

The annual campaign is the Salvation Army's largest fundraiser, providing critical funding for its programs and services, including the food pantry, utility assistance, housing support, and other emergency needs.

Martens emphasized that every dollar raised stays in the local community.

Several area businesses have already stepped forward to support this year's campaign. Systems Control, a Hubbell brand, will match donations made at all kettle locations on opening day.

Coleman Engineering, BOSS and First National Bank & Trust of Iron Mountain, along with other businesses, have also contributed donations.

Despite the early support, organizers say volunteers remain one of their biggest needs.

Bell ringers are needed to cover shifts from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. at five location: both entrances of Walmart, Super One Foods, Pat's Foods in Norway, Northwoods IGA in Niagara, Wis., and Walgreens in Iron Mountain.

Martens encourages individuals of all ages to consider volunteering, whether on their own, with friends or as part of a family, school organization, sports team or community groups.

They are also encouraging local groups to participate in its Battle of the Bells, inviting sports teams, school organizations and other groups to compete through their volunteer participation.

Bell ringing can also be a good opportunity for high school students to earn volunteer service hours.

For those who may feel uncomfortable ringing alone, Martens said arrangements can be made to pair first-time volunteers with someone else.

She said many people initially feel nervous about standing outside and ringing a bell, but the experience often becomes something they look forward to each year.

"We have some that bring their instruments, play music and even dress up -- we make it fun," Martens said.

Martens added that some of the most memorable moments come from the conversations volunteers have with people stopping by the kettles. People often share personal stories about how the Salvation Army helped them or their families in the past, oftentimes become emotional.

She said hearing those stories is a reminder of just how important the campaign is to the community. Many return year after year.

Volunteers are encouraged to sign up for two-hour shifts whenever possible, but Martens stressed that even an hour of someone's time can make a difference.

"You don't always have to give money. Giving of your time is more important," she said.

To add some extra fun and encourage participation, the Salvation Army has brought back its volunteer raffle baskets. All items included in the baskets are donated from area businesses and individuals.

Each week, two baskets will be awarded at random to volunteers, with winners announced on the Dickinson County Salvation Army's Facebook page.

Martens said the drawings are simply another way to thank those who give their time to the campaign.

The Dickinson County unit doesn't pay bell ringers, meaning the kettles are only available when volunteers are present.

"We have a lot of hours in the day to fill, so it's a challenge," Martens said.

Salvation Army Director Tara Coss said the loss of the Tadych's Marketplace Foods kettle location makes volunteer participation even more critical.

"We are already starting out in a deficit, so it's more important than ever that we get those kettles manned and help make up the difference," Coss said.

Coss noted the 2025 Red Kettle Campaign raised a total of $92,277, which was down from the previous year's total of $106,000. Last year, they assisted 148 households with Christmas food boxes and 417 individuals received holiday gifts through the Angel Tree Programming.

With just 42 days of bell ringing, the amount raised will help determine how much assistance the Salvation Army can provide throughout the coming year.

Coss said requests for assistance continue to grow as more local households struggle with rising living costs.

"We are seeing many more families in need, whether it's to pay their utilities or with food insecurities," she said.

Even families with steady employment are finding it increasingly difficult to keep up with inflated expenses.

"They can't get ahead even though they are doing everything the right way," Coss said.

The Salvation Army is working daily to keep its food pantry stocked as the volume of food being distributed continues to increase.

"We have the most generous community. Keeping that pantry available on a daily basis is vital," Coss said.

If you don't see someone ringing, additional tabletop kettles are also available for donation at about 30 businesses throughout the community.

Donations, both large and small, are welcomed. "Change makes change," she said.

Businesses interested in hosting a tabletop kettle or supporting the campaign with a donation are encouraged to contact Martens or the Salvation Army office.

"We need community support for programming to continue and thrive," Martens said.

As the holiday season approaches, both Martens and Coss hope residents will consider how they can contribute, whether through volunteering, donating or encouraging others to get involved.

"The community really needs you this season," Martens said. "Everything goes to help your neighbors."

Anyone interested in signing up for a bell-ringing shift can contact Martens at 906-239-4012.

Terri Castelaz can be reached at 906-774-2772, ext. 85241, or tcastelaz@ironmountaindailynews.com.