Earl Perkins Rings the bells to raise funds for The Salvation Army to help the Hungry, Homeless and Hopeless this holiday season.
“This is a wonderful way to help disadvantaged people in our community, simply by volunteering as bell ringers,” said Major Isaias Braga, commander of The Salvation Army of San Bernardino.
SAN BERNARDINO, Calif.— The “miracle” of Christmas is repeated through the joy of caring and sharing. The San Bernardino Salvation Army (www.salvationarmyusa.org) seeks volunteers to Keep the Bells Ringing in the cities of San Bernardino, Redlands, Highland, Rialto, Loma Linda, Colton, Yucaipa, Calimesa, Bloomington, Mentone, Grand Terrace, Muscoy, Big Bear, Lake Arrowhead and Running Springs.
The nationally recognized shiny red kettles are an integral part of the Christmas scene, with lots of dollars donated each year to aid needy families, seniors and the homeless, in keeping with the spirit of the season.
“This is a wonderful way to help disadvantaged people in our community, simply by volunteering as bell ringers,” said Major Isaias Braga, commander of The Salvation Army of San Bernardino. “We’re looking for individuals, families and groups to spend a day at one of our more than 30 locations in our area.”
The Salvation Army begins ringing its bells this year on Monday November 13th, from 10 am through 6 pm and continues Monday through Saturday until Christmas Eve.
Many volunteers ring two hours at a time, but groups are asked to provide ringers who can work in shifts for an entire day. Anyone who would like to donate a few hours of their time can volunteer. Individuals under the age of 16 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Where does the money raised by the ringing bells in San Bernardino go? The Salvation Army provides emergency services including food, housing for homeless or displaced families, clothing and showers, as well as assistance with rent or mortgage and transportation when funds are available.
“Last Christmas, The Salvation Army provided 650 holiday food baskets to families and 1,400 children received 5,500 toys,” said Braga. On Christmas Eve, The Salvation Army hosts a Christmas Dinner that provides a delicious meal to approximately 300 people. Donations raised by volunteers who Keep the Bells Ringing help make this possible.
To volunteer to Keep the Bells Ringing, call The Salvation Army at (909) 888-1336.
To donate to The Salvation Army online, go to: www.salvationarmyusa.org. To donate by phone call 1-800-SAL-ARMY (800-725-2769).
Photo Caption: Majors Isaias and Adelma Braga welcome donors to The Annual Red Kettle Kickoff. This year’s event is Wednesday, November 15th, at 5:30 pm at the Bear Springs Events Center, 27923 Highland Avenue, Highland, CA 92346. Click here for tickets.
Pete Van Helden – Stater Bros. Markets Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board, will deliver the keynote address at the kickoff event for The Salvation Army’s Annual Red Kettle campaign. It all happens on Wednesday, November 15th at 5:30 PM at the Bear Springs Events Center, 27923 Highland Avenue, Highland, CA 92346
The Salvation Army is an evangelical part of the Universal Christian Church and offers holistic programs for individuals in need without discrimination. One of the largest charitable and international service organizations in the world, The Salvation Army has served San Bernardino and the Inland Empire since 1887. The San Bernardino Corps of The Salvation Army serves Bloomington, Colton, Grand Terrace, Highland, Rialto, and San Bernardino.
Donations may always be made online at www.salvationarmyusa.org or by calling 1-(800)-SAL-ARMY. Our local service number is (909) 888-1336.
“I was surprised by the great turnout we had at last years Red Kettle Kick Off, and I am hopeful we can repeat that this November,” said Lemann.
“The Salvation Army serves as one of the most trusted and effective providers of services to the hungry, the homeless, the hopeless, the addicted and people in need. Their doors are always open,” said Wilfrid “Bill” Lemann.
SAN BERNARDINO, CALIF.— Local attorney Wilfrid “Bill” Lemann, partner at Fullerton, Lemann, Schaefer & Dominick, LLP, is the Red Kettle Kick-Off master of ceremonies for 2022. The annual start of the Bell Ringing season for The Salvation Army is Thursday, November 17th at 5:30 PM, at the Bear Springs Hotel Events Center, 27923 Highland Ave, Highland, CA 92346.
“I was surprised by the great turnout we had last year, and I am hopeful we can repeat that this November,” said Lemann. The San Manuel Band of Mission Indians has always been a key sponsor of this event and Tribal Chairwoman Lynn Valbuena will be giving the keynote address this year. She’s an outstanding speaker and always has a message worth listening to.”
Bill Lemann has served as the master of ceremonies for the Red Kettle Kick Off for most of the last 25 years. “His humor, relationships with community leaders, elected officials and lifelong dedication to the San Bernardino community are legendary,” said Brian Cronin the Red Kettle Kick-off Chair. “It is an honor for Bill to be our Master of Ceremonies and help The Salvation Army serve those in need.”
Hungry, homeless, hopeless? trouble paying monthly bills, drug, or alcohol addiction? The Salvation Army helps people in need with all these problems and more. Different programs have different funding sources and one of the most important sources is the annual Red Kettle Kick Off campaign each Christmas season.
The Salvation Army bell ringers in front of your favorite stores collect money that provides food; lodging for homeless or displaced families; food baskets available daily, hot meals, clothing, and furniture; assistance with rent or mortgage and transportation when funds are available.
During the Christmas season, The Salvation Army also delivers holiday food baskets to about 500 local families and provides toys to children whose parents cannot afford them.
On Christmas Eve, The Salvation Army of San Bernardino hosts a Christmas Dinner that historically provides a delicious meal to approximately 200 people. Donations from people who donate to the Red Kettles help make this possible.
“The Salvation Army serves as one of the most trusted and effective providers of services to the homeless, the hungry the hopeless, the addicted and people in need. Their doors are always open,” said Lemann.
Donors are asked to drop off turkeys, hams, canned food, cash, checks or gift cards at the Salvation Army’s Corps Office at 838 Alta Street, Redlands, 92373.
The Salvation Army has served San Bernardino since 1887, and Redlands since 1885, supporting those in need without discrimination. They serve the cities of: San Bernardino, Redlands, Highlands, Rialto, Loma Linda, Colton, Yucaipa, Calimesa, Bloomington, Mentone, Grand Terrace, Muscoy, and the mountain communities.
For more information call (909) 792-6868.
About the Salvation Army San Bernardino Corps
The Salvation Army is an evangelical part of the Universal Christian Church and offers holistic programs for individuals of all. One of the largest charitable and international service organizations in the world.
The Salvation Army has served San Bernardino since 1887, and Redlands since 1885, supporting those in need without discrimination. They serve the cities of: San Bernardino, Redlands, Highlands, Rialto, Loma Linda, Colton, Yucaipa, Calimesa, Bloomington, Mentone, Grand Terrace, Muscoy, and the mountain communities.
PHOTO CAPTION: Lynn Valbuena, Chairwoman of the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians, will deliver the keynote address at the kick-off event for The Salvation Army’s Annual Red Kettle campaign.
“We are delightedto have Lynn Valbuena, Chairwoman of the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians, serve as the keynote speaker for the 2022 Ked Kettle Kick-Off,” said Major Isaias Braga, Commander of The Salvation Army of San Bernardino.
REDLANDS, CALIF.—Lynn Valbuena, Chairwoman of the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians, will deliver the keynote address at the kick-off event for The Salvation Army’s Annual Red Kettle campaign.
The “miracle” of Christmas is repeated through the joy of caring, sharing and donations to The Salvation Army’s Red Kettles. The ringing of the Silver Bells begins with The Red Kettle Kick-Off. This year’s event is Thursday November 17th at 5:30 PM.
For nearly 50 years, Chairwoman Valbuena has held numerous elected and appointed positions within San Manuel tribal government.
Valbuena has held several officer positions on the Business Committee, including Secretary/Treasurer, Vice Chairwoman and now her fifth terms as Chairwoman. Valbuena also has a long history of service and leadership with regional, state and national organizations, including the Tribal Alliance of Sovereign Indian Nations (TASIN), where she is currently serving her 27th year as Chairwoman.
PHOTO CAPTION: Majors Isaias (left) and Adelma Braga.
“We are delighted to have Lynn Valbuena, Chairwoman of the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians, serve as the keynote speaker for the 2022 Ked Kettle Kick-Off,” said Major Isaias Braga, Commander of The Salvation Army of San Bernardino. “The tribe has supported the mission of The Salvation Amy for decades. We are honored to serve the same community,” he added.
PHOTO CAPTION: Red Kettle Kick Off
Lynn remains focused on serving the San Manuel tribal community and continuing efforts to preserve and strengthen the Tribe’s Serrano culture, governmental sovereignty and the Tribe’s long tradition of service to all who dwell or visit Serrano ancestral lands that includes the San Bernardino valley.
In 2019–20 The Salvation Army served 22,268 households that included 105,602 meals and 10,072 households receiving groceries. The Hospitality House provided 31,534 nights of shelter to families and children experiencing homelessness; 1,612 at-risk children participated in educational and recreational programs.
For Christmas, the Salvation Army creates holiday food baskets for about 500 local families. On Christmas Eve, The Salvation Army of San Bernardino hosts a Christmas Dinner that before covid, historically provided a delicious meal to approximately 200 people. Donations from people who donate to the Red Kettles help make this possible.
The Salvation Army of San Bernardino serves the cities of San Bernardino, Redlands, Highland, Rialto, Loma Linda, Colton, Yucaipa, Calimesa, Bloomington, Mentone, Grand Terrace, Muscoy and the mountain communities.
Suggested donation for the Red Kettle Kick Off is $250 per person, Donations may always be made online at www.salvationarmyusa.org or by calling 1-(800)-SAL-ARMY. For local information call (909) 792-6868. Donors may drop off turkeys, hams, other food, cash or gift cards at the Salvation Army’s Corps Office at 838 Alta Street, Redlands California, 92373.
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About The Salvation Army
The Salvation Army is an evangelical part of the Universal Christian Church. One of the largest charitable and international service organizations in the world, The Salvation Army has been in existence since 1865 and in San Bernardino since 1887, supporting those in need without discrimination. To donate go to: www.salvationarmyusa.org
Who: Santa Claus, aka John Berry, long time bell ringer, supporter of The Salvation Army and retried 20-year veteran reporter from the Press Enterprise.
Children and families experiencing homelessness at The Salvation Army of San Bernardino’s Hospitality House (Homeless shelter)
What: Santa Claus will be at The Salvation Army Hospitality House on Christmas morning for the first time ever and make an already magical morning even more special by delivering donated gifts to homeless children.
Why: To Restore Hope to desperate families and children in dire circumstances. In this pandemic Inland Empire, we are called to Restore Hope and share joy through unique opportunities such as this with those who are most vulnerable.
When: Christmas Morning 12/25/2021 @ 9:00am
Where: 925 W. 10th Street
San Bernardino CA, 92411
Images: Santa giving grateful homeless children presents
Please help the Salvation Army obtain more toys and turkeys for children and families in need this Holiday Season. Donations can always be made online at www.salvationarmyusa.org or by calling 1-(800)-SAL-ARMY.
(Redlands, Calif.) The Salvation Army of San Bernardino is in need of frozen turkeys for our Christmas food distribution on December 20th to families in need who have signed up for Christmas assistance.
“Please bring your donation of frozen Turkeys to either our Redlands location at: 838 Alta Street or our Hospitality House located at: 925 W. 10th St., San Bernardino,” said Major Martha Trimmer, Corps Officer of The Salvation Army of San Bernardino.
To sign up for food for your family please apply in person at The Salvation Army 838 Alta Street in Redlands.
“We can help with toys for your dependent children from birth to 12 years old please bring with you your, ID, proof of dependent children in the household i.e.; birth certificate, social security card, or insurance card, and proof of residence such as a utility bill,” said Major Martha Trimmer, Corps Officer of The Salvation Army of San Bernardino.
Majors Kyle and Martha Trimmer, Corps Officer of The Salvation Army of San Bernardino host The Salvation Army of San Bernardino’s Red Kettle Kick Off on Wednesday November 17, 2021at 6:00 PM., at the Bear Springs Events Center in Highland.
“We can also help your entire family with food”, she added.
Monetary donations can be mailed to P.O Box 26, Redlands, CA 92373. Donations can always be made online at www.salvationarmyusa.org or by calling 1-(800)-SAL-ARMY.
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About the Salvation Army San Bernardino Corps
The Salvation Army may provide emergency services including food; lodging for homeless or displaced families; clothing and furniture; assistance with rent or mortgage and transportation when funds are available. The Salvation Army Team Emergency Radio Network (SATERN) assists rescue workers and evacuees in such disasters as fires.
Serving: San Bernardino, Redlands, Highlands, Rialto, Loma Linda, Colton, Yucaipa, Calimesa, Bloomington, Mentone, Grand Terrace, Muscoy, and the mountain communities.
The Salvation Army is an evangelical part of the Universal Christian Church, and offers evangelical programs for boys, girls, and adults. One of the largest charitable and international service organizations in the world, The Salvation Army has been in existence since 1865 and in San Bernardino since 1885, supporting those in need without discrimination. Donations may always be made online at www.salvationarmyusa.org or by calling 1-(800)-SAL-ARMY. Our local number is (909) 888-1336.
The Salvation Army and our vollenteers are ready to help your children with toys and your entire family with food. Volunteers serve meals at the Annual Thanksgiving Dinner celebration.
(Redlands, Calif.) Do your children need food or toys this Christmas? The Salvation Army can help. Please apply in person at The Salvation Army 838 Alta Street in Redlands.
“We can help with toys for your dependent children from birth to 12 years old please bring with you your, ID, proof of dependent children in the household i.e.; birth certificate, social security card, or insurance card, and proof of residence such as a utility bill,” said Major Martha Trimmer, Corps Officer of The Salvation Army of San Bernardino.
“We can also help your entire family with food”, Major Trimmer added.
For more information call the Salvation Army at (909) 888-1336. To donate money by phone call 1-800-SAL-ARMY (800-725-2769). Donate online at: https://sanbernardino.salvationarmy.org
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About the Salvation Army San Bernardino Corps
The Salvation Army may provide emergency services including food; lodging for homeless or displaced families; clothing and furniture; assistance with rent or mortgage and transportation when funds are available. The Salvation Army Team Emergency Radio Network (SATERN) assists rescue workers and evacuees in such disasters as fires.
Serving: San Bernardino, Redlands, Highlands, Rialto, Loma Linda, Colton, Yucaipa, Calimesa, Bloomington, Mentone, Grand Terrace, Muscoy, and the mountain communities
The Salvation Army is an evangelical part of the Universal Christian Church, and offers evangelical programs for boys, girls, and adults. One of the largest charitable and international service organizations in the world, The Salvation Army has been in existence since 1865 and in San Bernardino since 1885, supporting those in need without discrimination. Donations may always be made online at www.salvationarmyusa.org or by calling 1-(800)-SAL-ARMY. Our local number is (909) 888-1336
Salvation Army Announces Red Kettle Kick Off at Bear Springs Hotel in Highland
Assemblymember James Ramos and Attorney Wilfred C. Lemann lead the Red Kettle Kick Off Restore Christmas to launch San Bernardino annual giving campaign for homeless, hungry, and hopeless.
(Redlands, CA) The Salvation Army of San Bernardino County announces the Red Kettle Kick Off on Wednesday November 17, 2021at 6:00 PM., at the Bear Springs Events Center in Highland with Keynote speaker Assemblymember James Ramos. Community leader and Attorney Wilfrid C. Lemann will serve as the master of ceremonies.
Assemblymember James Ramos is the Keynote speaker for The Salvation Army of San Bernardino’s Red Kettle Kick Off on Wednesday November 17, 2021at 6:00 PM., at the Bear Springs Events Center in Highland.
“Every year we have invited community and business leaders to learn how The Salvation Army served our community last year and how we will serve the county in the next year,” said Major Kyle Trimmer, Corps Officer of The Salvation Army of San Bernardino.
“We also ask the community to donate funds to support our mission for this Christmas and next year,” said Major Trimmer. “We are worried about getting the toys we need for the hundreds of children who will go without a Christmas present if we don’t help.”
Majors Kyle and Martha Trimmer, Corps Officer of The Salvation Army of San Bernardino host The Salvation Army of San Bernardino’s Red Kettle Kick Off on Wednesday November 17, 2021at 6:00 PM., at the Bear Springs Events Center in Highland.
The nationally recognized shiny Red Kettle and our happy bell ringers are an integral part of the Christmas scene. Each year, thousands of dollars are donated to aid needy families, children, seniors, and the homeless, hungry and hopeless.
Community leader and Attorney Wilfrid C. ”Bill” Lemann is the master of ceremonies for The Salvation Army of San Bernardino’s Red Kettle Kick Off on Wednesday November 17, 2021at 6:00 PM., at the Bear Springs Events Center in Highland.
The Red Kettles are the main fundraiser for The Salvation Army and raises the majority of funds for service to needy people in the county for the year. The suggested donation for the Red Kettle Kick Off is $250. If you would like to attend this event please RSVP to KettleKickOffRSVP@usw.salvationarmy.org
The Salvation Army serves the Inland Empire’s homeless, hungry, and hopeless. They have served our area since 1885, supporting those in need without discrimination.
To volunteer or donate call (909) 792-6868 or go to www.salvationarmyusa.org.
About the Salvation Army
The Salvation Army is an evangelical part of the Universal Christian Church and offers holistic programs for individuals of all. The Salvation Army is one of the world’s largest charitable and international service organizations.
The San Bernardino Corps of The Salvation Army serves Big Bear, Blue Jay, Crestline, Lake Arrowhead, the mountain communities, Bloomington, Colton, Grand Terrace, Highland, Rialto, Loma Linda, Yucaipa, Redlands, and San Bernardino.
The Salvation Army of San Bernardino County announces the Red Kettle Kick Off on Wednesday November 17, 2021at 6:00 PM., at the Bear Springs Events Center in Highland with Keynote speaker Assemblymember James Ramos. Community leader and Attorney Wilfrid C. Lemann will serve as the master of ceremonies.
Daniel Herrera 12, Sonali Herrera 10, mother, Sujana Herrera volunteer to serve at the recent Thanksgiving dinner. They are from Riverside this is their second-year volunteering with The Salvation Army. The annual Christmas Dinner for hundreds of people is at 2626 Pacific St., in San Bernardino on Saturday, December 24 from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
(San Bernardino, Calif.) The San Bernardino Salvation Army Corp (www.salvationarmyusa.org) hosts its annual Christmas Dinner for hundreds of people at its headquarters, 2626 Pacific St., in San Bernardino, CA 92346. This year, the Christmas dinner will be held on Saturday, December 24 from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
“We share the joy and love of our God who sent his only begotten son, Jesus Christ, to save us from sin. He taught use to love our neighbors as ourselves. We share this Christmas meal and meals every day to show those in need that God truly cares for all of his children,” said Major Daniel Henderson, Citadel Corp director.
Since 1887, the annual San Bernardino Salvation Army Christmas dinner has served thousands of families, mothers, children and men who do not have the means to provide themselves a Christmas dinner. Some just come to enjoy fellowship with others.
People come from Bloomington, Colton, Grand Terrace, Highland, Rialto, and San Bernardino for this annual Christmas celebratory meal. The dinner often serves more than 300 people.
“This year, guests will enjoy a turkey dinner with all the trimmings, containing potatoes, gravy, stuffing, vegetables, pie and other food received from donations,” said Lt. Cathie McCully.
“Every year, volunteers come together to provide the food preparation and service of Christmas meals to dinner guests,” said Major Daniel Henderson, Commander of The Salvation Army San Bernardino Corp. “Our volunteers and staff really do an outstanding job, to make a difference for those who are less fortunate during the holiday season.”
Many of the services provided by the Salvation Army, such as this annual Community Christmas dinner, are made possible through in-kind donations and money raised through the Red Kettle Bell Ringer campaign. “It’s one of ministries your donations serve,” said Major Henderson.
Each Christmas, Inland Empire Salvation Army Corps in eight corps locations combine to serve about 1,800 people holiday meals.
The hungry families are joined by hundreds of volunteers who help prepare the food and serve meals to the families. Along with asking volunteers to help serve food, the Salvation Army is encouraging people to donate turkeys or hams, side dishes and other food by calling (909) 888-1336.
“The San Bernardino Corps also needs food every day for those at our Hospitality House living shelter,” said Lt. Cathie McCully. Up to 100 family members stay in its transitional and emergency family shelters.
For more information about the Salvation Army Christmas dinner, donations or volunteering for the Christmas dinner at The Salvation Army near you, call or visit the locations below.
San Bernardino County
San Bernardino, 2626 Pacific Avenue, (909) 888-1336.
Ontario, 1412 S. Euclid Ave., (909) 986-6748.
Victorville, 14585 La Paz Drive, (760) 245-2545.
Redlands, 838 Alta St., (909) 792-6868.
Riverside County
Riverside, 3695 First Street, (951) 784-3571
Moreno Valley, 14075 Frederick St., (951) 653-9131.
About The Salvation Army San Bernardino Corps
The Salvation Army may be able to provide emergency services including food; lodging for homeless or displaced families; clothing and furniture; assistance with rent or mortgage and transportation when funds are available. The Salvation Army Team Emergency Radio Network (SATERN) assists rescue workers and evacuees in such disasters as fires.
The Salvation Army is an evangelical part of the universal Christian Church, and also offering holistic programs for people of all ages. One of the largest charitable and international service organizations in the world, The Salvation Army has been in existence since 1865 and in San Bernardino since 1887, supporting those in need without discrimination.
The San Bernardino Corps of The Salvation Army serves Bloomington, Colton, Grand Terrace, Highland, Rialto, and San Bernardino. Donations may always be made online at www.salvationarmyusa.org or by calling 1-(800)-SAL-ARMY. Our local number is (909) 888-1336.
Arlene and Priscilla Delgado, ages 4 and 8, each used their savings to purchase Christmas toys for a less fortunate child through the Salvation Army San Bernardino Corp’s Giving Tree program at Inland Center Mall. Help the Salvation Army obtain more toys for children in need by going to the Giving Tree by Dec. 24. Photo by Kelly Silvestri-Raabe
(SAN BERNARDINO, Calif.) It’s not to late to make a Happy Christmas for a child. Giving a toy to a needy child. It a small gesture, but participating in The Salvation Army’s Giving Tree will make this Christmas memorable for children in need. Without your help, some children won’t get anything for Christmas.
“Just pick up an Angel Giving Tree tag and buy a needy child the gift listed on the tag! The Angel Giving Tree matches donors with hundreds of children who are relying on The Salvation Army this year to bring them a Merry Christmas,” said Major Daniel Henderson, Corps officer for the San Bernardino Salvation Army.
The San Bernardino Corps Giving Tree is at Inland Center Mall in San Bernardino, 500 Inland Center Drive in San Bernardino, 92408. Donations received here provide toys to children from 300 disadvantaged families in San Bernardino, Rialto, Highland, Grand Terrace, Colton, Fontana and Bloomington.
“Please support disadvantaged children with a Christmas gifts at the Giving Tree by visiting our table in the Inland Center Mall and fulfilling the wishes of a child till December 24th,” said Lt Cathie McCully.
Shoppers find cards attached to the Giving Tree. These cards include the names and wish lists of needy children whose families cannot afford to buy gifts. Shoppers simply pluck a tag off the Giving Tree and head for the appropriate store to purchase their gift donations, then return it to the Giving Tree volunteers.
Shoppers get to keep the card as an ornament to hang on their own Christmas tree, reminding them of their good deed.
“This is a great way to start a tradition with your family, by selecting a gift for a needy child together. The gifts are based on their individual wishes and for some children, it may be the only gift they receive all year,” said Lt McCully.
“Soccer balls, dolls and clothes are just a few items on each child’s wish list,” said Major Henderson. “Shoppers who participate in the program are encouraged to shop for more than what is needed on the list. I can’t think of a better way for local people including business owners and managers to help the community and spread the spirit of Christmas.”
For more information on the Giving Tree call (909) 888-1336 or visit the tree in the Inland Center Mall in San Bernardino. To donate money by phone call 1-800-SAL-ARMY (800-725-2769). Donate on line at: WesternUSA.SalvationArmy.org
About the Salvation Army San Bernardino Corps
The Salvation Army may provide emergency services including food; lodging for homeless or displaced families; clothing and furniture; assistance with rent or mortgage and transportation when funds are available. The Salvation Army Team Emergency Radio Network (SATERN) assists rescue workers and evacuees in such disasters as fires.
The Salvation Army is an evangelical part of the Universal Christian Church, and offers evangelical programs for boys, girls and adults. One of the largest charitable and international service organizations in the world, The Salvation Army has been in existence since 1865 and in San Bernardino since 1887, supporting those in need without discrimination. Donations may always be made online at www.salvationarmyusa.org or by calling 1-(800)-SAL-ARMY. Our local number is (909) 888-1336.
Photo 2 IMG_1652 Earl Perkins: Mr. Earl Perkins stands with his kettle by the entry doors at the Food 4 Less market on Victoria Ave. and Highland Ave. in San Bernardino. Earl is a Salvation Army Solider, and is in full uniform when he works. Earl has been with the Kansas City Salvation Army for over six years. Earl moved to San Bernardino four months ago, and is now a member of the San Bernardino Corps. Photo By Ricardo Tomboc
(SAN BERNARDINO, Calif.) The “miracle” of Christmas is repeated through the joy of caring and sharing. The San Bernardino Salvation Army (www.salvationarmyusa.org) seek volunteers to Keep The Bells Ringing in Bloomington, Colton, Grand Terrace, Highland, Rialto, and San Bernardino.
The nationally recognized shiny red kettle is an integral part of the Christmas scene, with millions of dollars donated each year to aid needy families, seniors, and the homeless, in keeping with the spirit of the season.
Photo 3 IMG_1590 Haskel and Claudia: Claudia Torres from San Bernardino and daughter Barbara, came by Macy’s to pick up some items, and decided to stop by the kettle to make a donation on her way out. Although Claudia had no idea what The Salvation Army uses the money for, she gave anyway. Claudia was informed all about the various ministries and how The Salvation Army helps feed the poor and homeless, and has a Transitional Living Center and Homeless shelter.
“This is a wonderful way to help disadvantaged people in our community, simply by volunteering as bell ringers,” said Major Daniel Henderson, commander of The Salvation Army of San Bernardino. “We’re looking for individuals, families and groups to spend a day at one of our more than 30 locations in our area.”
The Salvation Army began ringing its bells this year on Friday, Nov. 18 and continues from 10 a.m. through 6 p.m., Monday through Saturday until Christmas Eve.
Many volunteers ring two hours at a time, but groups are asked to provide ringers who can work in shifts for an entire day. Anyone who would like to donate a few hours of his or her time can volunteer. Individuals under the age of 16 must be accompanied a parent or guardian.
Salvation Army Boardmember Carl M. Dameron Keeps the Bells Ringing with his family. Left to right: Malaika, Carl and Shaila. Photo by Ricard Tomboc
“The more people who volunteer, the fewer people the agency must hire,” said Major Henderson. “Each volunteer who Keeps the Bells Ringing saves us $10 an hour. That means more money raised in direct support of our services goes to families in need.”
Where does the money raised by the ringing bells in San Bernardino go? The Salvation Army provides emergency services including food; lodging for homeless or displaced families; clothing and furniture; assistance with rent or mortgage and transportation when funds are available. The Salvation Army Team Emergency Radio Network (SATERN) assists rescue workers and evacuees in disasters such as fires and earthquakes.
For Christmas, the Salvation Army creates holiday food baskets for about 500 local families. On Christmas Eve, The Salvation Army of San Bernardino hosts a Christmas Dinner that historically provides a delicious meal to approximatly 300 people. Donations raised by volunteers who Keep The Bells Ringing help make this possible.
The Corp has other need for your finial and food donations. “The San Bernardino Corps needs food every day for those at its Hospitality House and Transitional Living Center,” said Integrated Mission Coordinator Lieutenant Cathie McCulley. Up to 100 family members stay in its transitional and emergency family shelters.
Photo 1 IMG_144 Shey Walmart: Mr. Shey Holden takes his post at the front of the Walmart on Mt. Vernon Ave. in Colton. Shey is a volunteer with The Salvation Army, and is planning on giving at least 30 hours this season. Photo By Ricardo Tomboc
Up to 300 people who receive a free dinner served Sunday through Friday at 4:45 p.m. at The Transitional Living Center, 925 West 10th Street in San Bernardino. Your donations are needed to keep this program going.
To volunteer to Keep The Bells Ringing, call The Salvation Army at (909) 888-1336.
To donate to The Salvation Army online, go to: www.salvationarmyusa.org. To donate by phone call 1-800-SAL-ARMY (800-725-2769).
Donors may drop off turkeys, other food, cash or gift cards at the Salvation Army’s Corps Office at 2626 Pacific St., in San Bernardino, CA 92346, phone (909) 888-1336.
How the Bell Ringer campaign began:
Captain Joseph McFee, serving with the San Francisco Salvation Army Corps in 1891, wanted to serve Christmas dinner to the poor in his neighborhood. But he didn’t have money to do so.
As a sailor in Liverpool, England, Captain Mcfee saw people on the docks throw money into a large kettle called “Simpson’s Pot” to help the poor. He decided this might work in California too.
Captain Mcfee set up a kettle at the Oakland Ferry Landing, which operated a ferry that was, in those days, the only way across San Francisco Bay. He put a sign on the kettle saying “Keep the Pot Boiling” and raised enough money to serve the Christmas dinner.
His idea spread quickly, and by 1897 Salvation Army Corps nationwide were collecting money in kettles to serve the needy in their communities. Among the Salvation Army Corps collecting money this way before the turn of the 20th Century was The Salvation Army of San Bernardino, which formed in 1887.
About the Salvation Army San Bernardino Corps
The Salvation Army is an evangelical part of the Universal Christian Church, and offers holistic programs for individuals of all. One of the largest charitable and international service organizations in the world, The Salvation Army has served San Bernardino and the Inland Empire since 1887, supporting those in need without discrimination. The San Bernardino Corps of The Salvation Army serves Bloomington, Colton, Grand Terrace, Highland, Rialto, and San Bernardino.
Donations may always be made online at www.salvationarmyusa.org or by calling 1-(800)-SAL-ARMY. Our local service number is (909) 888-1336.
Photo 4 IMG_1538 Haskel at Macys: Mr. Haskel Herndon is ringing his Christmas bell at the Macy’s department store at the Inland Center Mall. Haskel greets every customer he comes in contact with. Haskel opens the door for the ladies and for those with handfuls of packages! Haskel has been a Soldier with the Salvation Army for 3 months now. Photo By Ricardo Tomboc
