FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Media Contact:                                                                                   

Lt. Michael Harrington, 315-724–8736, Michael.Harrington@USE.SalvationArmy.Org

Robert Stronach, 315-796-9468, bob@stronachassociates.com

Charles Greco, 315-792-0110, cgreco@cityofutica.com      

UTICA SAlvation army LAUNCHES

ITS Annual red kettle CAMPAIGN

Mayor Palmieri Appeals for Volunteer Bell Ringers

Utica, NY– November 14, 2016 - The Utica Salvation Army today launched its annual Red Kettle Campaign at Utica City Hall with Mayor Robert M. Palmieri as honorary chairman.

With Lt. Michael Harrington, Corps Officer of the Utica Salvation Army, announcing a goal of $120,000, Mayor Palmieri made an appeal for volunteers to ring the bells at Red Kettles that will be seen at various locations throughout the greater Utica area during the holiday season. He also said that companies and organizations can help by adopting a kettle.

“The money raised during the Red Kettle Campaign is a critical source of funding for vital programs and services for tens of thousands of families, youth and senior citizens in Utica and across Upstate New York,” Mayor Palmieri said. “This includes meals, toys and other holiday support for those in need, along with funding for food pantries, soup kitchens, social services, and education programs throughout the year.”

Lt. Michael Harrington noted: "We see new people in need of services each day. Each circumstance is a bit different.  Some parents have seen their hours reduced at work and can’t make ends meet, and others don’t have enough income to cover the rising cost of food and utilities. We are motivated to get the Red Kettles back out there so that we can continue to help all those in need.”

Donations from the Kettle Campaign fund a variety of local services, including The Salvation Army’s Youth Drop-In-Center, youth educational and performing arts programs, food pantry, soup kitchen, and Christmas toys and food baskets.

“The Salvation Army expects that the number of people in need across upstate New York will be at or near record levels this year,” Lieutenant Harrington said. “With only six weeks to raise funds that need to last all year, it’s critical that we get off to a strong start this year. We are fortunate to live in such a caring and supportive community and we’re asking our friends and neighbors to help us achieve a successful Red Kettle Campaign in Utica.”

About the Red Kettle

The Red Kettle tradition began in 1891 when Salvation Army Captain Joseph McFee wanted to help feed needy citizens in San Francisco. McFee remembered the ferry landings in Liverpool England, where people would sit with small kettles that travelers would toss spare change into to help the less fortunate. Placing his own kettle on Market Street in Oakland California, McFee was able to help individuals on Christmas. The idea traveled to Boston in 1897 and the Red Kettle Campaign has been a tradition ever since.

About The Salvation Army

Since 1865, The Salvation Army has been providing social and spiritual services to communities throughout the world. With heart to God and hand to man, The Salvation Army – an international movement – is an evangelical part of the universal Christian Church.  Its message is based on the Bible.  Its ministry is motivated by the love of God.  Its mission is to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs in His name without discrimination.

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