Volunteers Needed To Help Salvation Army’s Christmas Programs

From Special Reports

Despite the lingering pandemic, more than two million people of all ages volunteered their time, talents, and resources in 2021 to assist The Salvation Army’s work in the USA. This Christmastime, The Salvation Army right here in Newnan is appealing to prospective volunteers like YOU to help raise much-needed funds and to assist the most vulnerable men, women and children in our community. 

Volunteers are critical partners in helping the organization fulfill its mission and accomplish all that needs to be done, especially during the Holiday season.

“If you have never volunteered with The Salvation Army before, come and give it a try. Be part of something special by helping make a difference in the lives of so many this holiday season,” said Heather Durham, Director of The Salvation Army of Newnan Service Center. “We’ve got a volunteer opportunity just for you, whether you can give an hour, a morning, or an entire day.”

Volunteer as a Bell Ringer

Did you know that every volunteer hour of bell ringing raises enough money to put food on the table for 13 people? The Salvation Army of Newnan needs volunteer bell ringers from now through December 24th. Bell ringers can choose from 10 locations throughout Coweta County and ring in two-hour shifts from 9am-8pm, Monday-Saturday.  Every dollar collected in the red kettles support the wide range of services and programs provided throughout the year in Newnan, including feeding the hungry, sheltering the homeless, offering emergency financial assistance, youth programs, and disaster response. 

“Last year, our Red Kettle drive fell about $8,500 short of our $72,000 goal, in part because we did not have enough volunteer bell ringers,” says The Salvation Army of Newnan’s Red Kettle Drive Coordinator Jennifer Petrino. “We are working hard to recruit new volunteers and encourage past volunteers to participate so we can meet this year’s goal of $70,000.”

The Salvation Army of Newnan also has a Virtual Red Kettle for those that prefer to donate online using Google Pay, Paypal, Venmo, bank transfer or credit card. It can be found at https://give.salvationarmygeorgia.org/2022NewnanVRK. Visit The Salvation Army of Newnan’s Facebook page to learn more. 

For more than 125 years, The Salvation Army’s red kettles have been a symbol of goodwill during the holiday season,” said Petrino. “It’s easier than ever to sign up as a volunteer bell ringer. Just call 770-251-8181 or send an email to [email protected]. Individual volunteers as well as families, scout troops, school clubs, church groups, students who need service hours, service clubs, musicians and everything in between are all welcome to ring.” 

Be An Angel Tree Volunteer 

The Salvation Army makes Christmas dreams a reality by offering holiday shoppers the chance to adopt a child through the Angel Tree Program.

“Thanks to the generous support of community donors and businesses we anticipate providing gifts for 200 children this year,” said Sarita Workman, Family Store Manager. “We are seeking volunteers to help manage Angel Tree adoption locations, sort gifts, and be part of our gift distribution day to registered families.”

Another way to help is to host an Angel Tree in your church or place of business where employees, visitors and customers can participate by adopting one or more Angels.

“We are so grateful to our committed volunteers,” said Durham. “We hope everyone will consider giving even just a few hours of their time this season and give back to the community through The Salvation Army. We can’t do it without you. Our volunteers are truly the army behind the Army.”

To sign up as a volunteer bell ringer, or for more information about the Angel Tree program, to donate, or learn more about how you can support The Salvation Army this Christmas, call 770-251-8181.