The familiar red kettles and the sound of the Salvation Army bellringers are ushering in the holidays this week — and you can help.
Drop some change (or some bills) into the kettles to help Odessa residents who need a little boost this holiday season.
“Even a little bit of change can change a life,” Major Luis Melendez said Monday morning.
The campaign kicked off Monday morning outside of Odessa’s Hobby Lobby with a crowd of Salvation Army workers who were ready to man their own kettles now through Christmas.
This week the Hobby Lobby site, United Supermarkets and the Music City Mall all have kettles set up. After Nov. 20, other locations will be added.
Melendez is in his first year at Odessa’s Salvation Army and said he knows Ector County is generous. “The Salvation Army remains on the front lines to ensure that hope marches on during this holiday season.”
Melendez said Hope Marches On is the nationwide theme for the Salvation Army this year and pointed to tough economic times as sell as the resurgence of COVID as factors in why people are struggling this year.
This year the Salvation Army has more ways to give. Visit www.salvationarmytexas.org/odessa to donate online or scan the code at the kettle to donate via phone.
Volunteers are still needed to ring the bells and that can be set up through the website or by calling 332-0738.
One local Red Kettle challenge that many look forward to each year is Ector County Sheriff Mike Griffis vs. Odessa Police Department Chief Michael Gerke. The two will face off again this year from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Dec. 4 at the entrances of the eastside Wal-Mart. Bragging rights are at stake for whichever lawman raises the most money.
The Angel Tree program is also off to a start in Odessa. Pick up an angel from one of the trees and purchase the gifts or clothing listed to help an Odessa child in need.
Also, the Empty Stocking Fund will celebrate 27 years this holiday season when it kicks off on Thanksgiving Day.
The Empty Stocking Fund is an annual fundraising effort by the Odessa American and The Salvation Army.
Donations to the Empty Stocking Fund stay in Odessa and help the neediest among us. Donors may drop off or mail donations at the Salvation Army, 810 E. 11th St., or the Odessa American, 700 N. Grant (Bank of America Building), Suite 800. Online donations are accepted at https://give.salvationarmytexas.org/odessaemptystocking.
Funds raised go to buying the ingredients for a holiday meal and small gifts for children and needy senior citizens. Families apply for the help through the Salvation Army and staff members verify the needs of those applying.
This year’s goal is $100,000, which is the same as last year.
Donate online
>> Ring the Bell: The Salvation Army needs volunteer bell ringers this Christmas season. Groups can sign up now to ring bells at a number of locations in Ector County. One afternoon of bell ringing during the Christmas Kettle Campaign can raise enough money for The Salvation Army to shelter a homeless person for four nights and provide 12 hot meals. To become a volunteer bell ringer call 332-0738 or visit www.registertoring.com to sign up.
>> Empty Stocking Fund: tinyurl.com/eyf2fyr6
