Jacquet Wilson, of Westfield, and a volunteer bell ringer for the Salvation Army Service Center on Arnold Street in Westfield, is one of several volunteers that can be seen around the city at this time of the year. (Photo by Frederick Gore)
WESTFIELD – Nearly everyone recognizes the Salvation Army red kettle and what it means. Volunteers ring bells outside shops and restaurants every holiday season, collecting donations to one of the most recognizable charitable campaigns in the country.
This year, Westfield residents may notice fewer kettles as volunteers are sparse. To continue the good work of the Salvation Army, an online donation option has made it easier to give.
Captain John Ferreria, director of the Springfield Salvation Army, which oversees seven communities – including Westfield – said www.onlineredkettle.org is taking off in other areas of the country and is becoming more popular here.
“When you go to onlineredkettle.org, you can enter the zip code where you want your donation to go,” Ferreria said. “Your donation can go directly to the Salvation Army service center you choose.”
“We are having difficulty getting volunteers,” he said, which is why the online donation site is a crucial piece to helping families in need.
Ferreria said anyone who wishes to volunteer should contact the Westfield Salvation Army at 12 Arnold St. at 413-568-1256.
Although there is no donation goal for each community, Ferreria said he hopes to raise $100,000 in kettle donations in Springfield and Westfield this season.
“So far we are at the same level as last year,” he said. “Westfield is always very generous. I thank everyone who has given their money and time and wish them a Merry Christmas, or whatever holiday they celebrate.”
