The mood was festive, with the Salvation Army brass ensemble playing Christmas carols, and local leaders were in attendance Saturday at a ceremony outside the Market Basket grocery store.
“There’s probably no image that represents the Salvation Army more than the iconic red kettle and the bell ringer standing beside it at Christmas time,” said Major B. Bryan Smith, standing next to a Salvation Army “red kettle” donation bucket.
The Salvation Army of Old Orchard Beach provides services for those in Dayton, Arundel, Old Orchard Beach, Saco and Biddeford.
Salvation Army advisory board member Bill Southwick said funds collected for the kettle help provide toys and food baskets during the holiday season for many local families as well as support services to area families throughout the year.
“The need has no season,” said Southwick. “The need continues beyond Christmas.”
Smith said the annual kettle drive typically raises between $45,000 and $65,0000. Services the organization provides include a food pantry, community meals, and rent and fuel assistance.
— Staff Writer Liz Gotthelf can be contacted at 282-1535, ext. 325 or egotthelf@journaltribune.com.
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