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The Salvation Army Christmas Tradition

[ Posted On: 2006-12-16 ]

First started in San Francisco in 1891, the Red Kettle campaign has traditionally been The Salvation Army's most prominent fund-raiser. In 2004, the kettles raised over $100 million in communities nationwide, with the nickels, dimes, quarters and dollars all being put to good use in the towns where the money was deposited into the kettles.

The funds help to support:

* Utility and homeless assistance

* Senior and child care

* Many of the 37 million people in poverty

* Drug abuse treatment and many other social service needs

* The Army gives food and toys at Christmas

From its humble beginnings as a fundraiser started by a Salvation Army captain in San Francisco in 1891, the Red Kettle Campaign has grown into one of the most recognizable and important charity drives in the United states.

Here are a few more quick facts the this annual fundraiser:

* Last year, the funds helped the Salvation Army provide assistance to more than 31 million Americans in need

* Holiday shoppers in 2005 contributed a record $111 million nationwide with nickels, dimes, quarters and dollars

* More than 25,000 Salvation Army volunteers ring bells and solicit spare change donations to the iconic red kettles

The history of the Salvation Army began with a man named William Booth, an ordained Methodist minister, aided by his wife Catherine, and formed an evangelical group dedicated to preaching among the "un churched" people living in the midst of appalling poverty in London's East End. Booth's ministry recognized the interdependence of material, emotional and spiritual needs. In addition to preaching the gospel of Jesus Christ, Booth became involved in the feeding and shelter of the hungry and homeless and in rehabilitation of alcoholics and ended up building one of the world's largest charity organizations.

Booth and his followers, originally known as The Christian Mission, became The Salvation Army in 1878, when that organization evolved on a quasi-military pattern. Booth became "the General" and officers' ranks were given to his ministers. The Salvation Army has functioned successfully within that unusual structure for over a century.

As of 2006, its outreach has been expanded to more than 100 countries and is able to help the less fortunate and those in need all over the world. They've had affectionate nicknames bestowed upon them in many countries, such as the "Salvos in Australia and "Sally Ann" in Canada. When need is great, such as after the 2004 Indian Ocean Tsunami, the Salvation Army can be found on the scene to help in disaster relief efforts.

One of the oldest, but least known of the services they provide to the communities they live and work in is tracing lost or seperated family members. They've been doing this since all the way back in 1885 and in 1988 actually set a world record by reuniting a brother and sister after 81 years of being seperated from one another.

The international headquarters of the Salvation Army is still located in London, at 101 Queen Victoria Street. This holiday season, consider helping them give back to your community.

Happy holidays to you and yours!

Article Source: http://www.afroarticles.com/article-dashboard

About The Author: Alex Daniels consults for an online toy and model shop which carries pedal cars and highly realistic model cars. Alex is a car lover, and a kid at heart :)

| View Profile & All Articles By: Alex Daniels |

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