Donors Come Through Despite Pandemic

The Salvation Army’s red kettles are a familiar sight at the holidays and collections from the kettles are vital to protecting the agency’s programs and services from being interrupted. The coronavirus pandemic threatened to keep many people who would usually drop money in the kettles at home, and there was some worry that the Springfield Corps’ publicly stated need of $875,000 would not be met. 

But the Springfield community did not allow the pandemic to win. Bell ringers and kettles were allowed at all the locations where they’d been stationed in years past and the kettles met their goal. Every member of The Salvation Army Advisory Board contributed to the Christmas campaign, and corporate sponsors also came through, including Bass Pro Shops and Don Wessel Honda, who both doubled their matching contributions.

“The generous people and businesses in the Springfield area exceeded our expectations this past Christmas and showed how much they care for those who are in need and hurting in our communities. Thank you for restoring hope in these trying days. The Salvation Army and those we serve are grateful for your support,” said Major Jon Augenstein, Corps Officer. “While we recognize and respect the serious impact of the Covid19 pandemic, our community did not let it destroy hope or steal the joy of the holidays. It did not stop us from giving each other a hand up.”