Bells will be ringing Saturday as The Salvation Army in Meridian kicks off its annual Christmas Red Kettle Campaign with a celebratory event at Uptown Meridian.

The campaign, The Salvation Army’s largest fundraiser, helps raise money to continue the organization’s programs and projects throughout the year. The nonprofit served more than 10,500 people in 2023 and expects to see higher numbers for 2024 as costs for groceries, housing and utilities remain high.

“We are excited to ring in the holiday season with this event,” said Lt. Roy Fisher, commanding officer of The Salvation Army in Meridian. “We want to remind everyone that The Salvation Army provides many services and programs to those in need right here in Meridian. When you give to a Red Kettle, you are helping your neighbors because those donations stay local.”

This year’s kickoff event, set to begin at 11 a.m., will feature local attorney Aa’Keela Hudnall, who was named the 2024 Christmas Spokesperson by The Salvation Army, and her band, Aa’Keela and the Beats. The event will also highlight some of the newer additions to the iconic Red Kettle Campaign, such as options for digital giving.

All kettles this year will have QR codes residents can scan to make donations with their phones, as well as the ability to accept credit cards, Apple and Google pay, PayPal and Venmo.

“Many families are still in need,” Fisher said. “We’ve set this year’s fundraising goal at $75,000 to meet the increased needs this holiday season and beyond.”

Returning this year will be the online Empty Stockings campaign, which provides an opportunity for residents to support The Salvation Army online. Community members will have the opportunity to donate, host a fundraiser or even choose to host a red kettle at their business.

One of the programs the Red Kettle Campaign supports is the annual Angel Tree program, Fisher said, which provides Christmas gifts and clothing to local children and seniors. While many angels receive gifts from local residents who “adopt” them from an angel tree, The Salvation Army also works to provide gifts to those who are not selected.

“We still have many Christmas angels that need adopting,” Fisher said. “Red Kettle donations can help ensure every child gets to experience the joy and miracle of Christmas.”

For more information about The Salvation Army in Meridian, its programs or how to get involved, call 601-483-6156 or visit salvationarmymeridian.org.