BIDDEFORD — The first Salvation Army kettle was literally that: A soup kettle, placed in a conspicuous location in San Francisco by Joseph McPhee in 1881. He encouraged donations by telling people to “keep the pot boiling.”
One hundred thirty-three years later, the pot’s still boiling. On Saturday, outside Market Basket in Biddeford, two of the Salvation Army’s modern-day kettles ”“ recognizable by their trademark red color ”“ were placed outside the store, and representatives from the charitable organization held a ceremony to kick off its annual Christmas Kettle campaign, in hopes of raising money to assist residents in the Saco Bay area who find themselves in need heading into the holiday season.
The Salvation Army’s brass ensemble played “Hark, the Herald Angels Sing,” and for some, that marked the official start of the holidays.
Major Bryan Smith, who emceed the event, stressed that donations stay within the Saco Bay area, encompassing Biddeford, Saco, Old Orchard Beach, Dayton and the surrounding communities. Last year, the organization raised about $42,000, and hope to raise even more this year.
“People say, ”˜I don’t have much to give,’” said Smith. “But the nickels and the quarters add up.”
It’s a misconception, he said, that the Salvation Army is only a Christmas charity. While part of the proceeds go toward toy drives and other holiday-themed efforts, the money raised goes back into the community in the form of food, clothing, household goods, hot meals, rent, fuel payments and after school programs throughout the year.
Bill Southwick, president of the organization’s advisory board, said he’s looking forward to a great season.
“That money supports programs that go on the rest of the year,” said Southwick. “Need has no season.”
Biddeford Mayor Alan Casavant was on hand to encourage donations, and before taking the mic, made one himself ”“ one of the first donations since the red kettles were erected in a cold and biting wind.
“There are more and more people who are struggling,” said Casavant. “I urge everyone in Biddeford to contribute to this.”
While Senator Angus King was unable to attend the event, his regional representative, Bonnie Parker, spoke in his stead, commenting on the importance of charitable organizations in helping underprivileged families during this time of year.
“So many of us have gone through difficult times,” said Parker. “Thank goodness for organizations like the Salvation Army.”
Red kettles and bell ringers will be stationed outside some of the larger stores in the area, and many neighborhood markets and restaurants have agreed to place “countertop kettles” in their establishments. Anyone interested in assisting the Salvation Army may do so by calling 934-4381 and speaking with Major Beverly Smith.
— Staff Writer Jeff Lagasse can be contacted at 282-1535, ext. 319 or jlagasse@journaltribune.com.
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