While some may think it is still a little early to unpack the holiday decorations, The Salvation Army has been hard at work, planning Christmas programs for several months. Now, as the red kettles are appearing outside stores, and Angel Trees are being set up, volunteers are needed to help ensure men, women, and children in need throughout our community experience the joys of Christmas.

 

Volunteer as a Bell Ringer – Register to Ring

The Salvation Army needs volunteer bell ringers from now to December 24, from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Mondays through Saturdays. The annual Red Kettle Campaign is one of the Army’s primary fundraising efforts of the year. Every dollar collected in the red kettles support the wide range of services and programs provided throughout the year right here in McAllen, including feeding the hungry, sheltering the homeless, offering emergency financial assistance, providing toys to children, and more.

For more than 125 years, The Salvation Army’s red kettles have been a symbol of good will during the holiday season.

“Last year, we implemented an online tool for volunteers to sign-up,” said Lt. Aguirre of The Salvation Army. “We are excited to offer this again for the 2021 season. Visit www.RegisterToRing.com and simply select the location, date and time you would like to ring. You can split a shift with a friend or sign up as a group. Individuals, families, groups of friends or co-workers, and church groups are all welcome.”

Volunteer to Support the Angel Tree Program

Through the generous support of community donors, The Salvation Army will provide gifts for 1,800 children this year. They are seeking volunteers to help manage Angel Tree locations and later help sort and distribute gifts to program participants.

Volunteer to Serve Holidays Meals

For many years, The Salvation Army has served Thanksgiving and Christmas meals to approximately 1,700 residents. They are seeking about 50 volunteers to sign up for two - three hours for each of the holiday meals. Grab your entire family or sign-up to give back all on your own; there’s always time to start a new holiday tradition.

If you’re interested in volunteering for Angel Tree, holiday meals, or something else, please call The Salvation Army at (956) 682-1468. To make a donation, or for more ways to engage with The Salvation Army, visit www.salvationarmytexas.org/McAllen/.