BEAUMONT, Texas — The Salvation Army of Beaumont is seeking volunteers for their Red Kettle Campaign.
'Kettle Season' starts November 18, 2023.
People can volunteer, whether individuals or groups, to serve as 'Bell Ringers' and collect donations that would in return help Southeast Texas families in need.
Commanding Officer Major Ken Fagan says they are still dealing with Post-Pandemic issues.
"We're hoping that this kettle season, that folks will step us and call us, and join us at the kettle stand in helping us making a Merry Christmas for needy families," he said.
If you want to volunteer call 409-896-2361.
The history of the Red Kettle began in 1891 when the Salvation Army Captain saw how many poor San Franciscans were going hungry during the holiday season. This problem distressed the captain and he thought of a solution for the people, to supply a free Christmas meal to the poor.
However, the captain was faced with another problem, how was he going to fund this endeavor?
"Where would the money come from, he wondered. He lay awake nights, worrying, thinking, praying about how he could find the funds to fulfill his commitment of feeding 1,000 of the city's poorest individuals on Christmas Day. As he pondered the issue, his thoughts drifted back to his sailor days in Liverpool, England. He remembered how at Stage Landing, where the boats came in, there was a large, iron kettle called "Simpson's Pot" into which passers-by tossed a coin or two to help the poor," according to 'The History of the Red Kettle' on the Salvation Army of Beaumont website.
The following day, the captain went to Market Street and brought with him a pot. He place a sign next to it that said, "Keep the Pot Boiling."
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