Salvation Army plans to open inclement weather room

“Two hours of bell ringing makes us so much money even if the person makes 15 or 20 dollars, that’s $15 or $20 more than we had before that goes straight back into the community and programs services for people”.

The encounter left a lasting impression on Ruiz. “We continue to be blessed year after year by generous gold coin donors, and while we never expect them, we are so grateful to them”.

They would repeat that act of generosity every weekend. But Ruiz, 14, wanted to do more.

He’s hoping to raise more money than his colleagues in the department.

In a letter sent last week, The Douglas County Salvation Army alerted its supporters about the pressing need to help those families and individuals who are in dire financial straits.

It’s all for a good cause and to spread a little Christmas cheer!

The Thrift Shop is staffed entirely by volunteers, including Louise Carlson, who was ringing the bell for the Salvation Army at McAloon’s for a couple of hours Friday afternoon.

He’s calling it “Ten K Red Kettle Stay”. She reaches out to Schuyler Community Schools, area businesses, churches, youth groups such as the Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts and other organizations to pitch in.

Ruiz’s friend, Lucy Brookhart, 13, joined her at the kettle.

About 25 per cent of the three-hour-long shifts scheduled between now and December 24 are vacant of volunteers, said Shannon Wise, spokesperson for the Salvation Army’s Ontario Great Lakes Division. They quickly turned the idea into action.

“If anybody wants one, we will place a kettle out there”, said Peters.

Brookhart was especially happy to know where the donations go.

Kutynec said she understands how hard it can be for families to ask for help, especially if they never have before.