Caring Causes - Salvation Army Tree of Light and Bell Ringers

 The Annual Salvation Army “Tree of Lights” was erected last weekend in Saint Paul’s Rice Park, in preparation for this year’s tree-lighting and Red Kettle Kick-off.  

This year’s tree installation will feature a new dynamic light program that is synchronized with holiday music. A new program will play each week, so visitors can return to the tree weekly and see a new light and music program. The tree stands 40 feet tall, and it marks its 3rd annual appearance, following a number of years during which Rice Park did not display a holiday tree.

 

The program will also mark The Salvation Army’s annual Red Kettle Kick-Off, when the iconic kettles and bell ringers hit store entrances and street corners to collect funds for Salvation Army feeding and housing programs in the Twin Cities. This year’s Red Kettle Community Chair, Blaze Credit Union CEO Dan Stoltz, will also be on hand Saturday to kick off the season.

 

“Our hope is that the annual ‘Tree of Lights’ event will continue to build a holiday tradition here in the Twin Cities, much like the red kettle, and affirm our commitment to celebrating the season of peace, hope, and good will,” said Lt. Colonel Randall Polsley, Salvation Army Northern Division commander.

 

The demand for assistance remains historically high, as steeper prices for food, gas and utilities continue to create hardship for tens of thousands of Twin Cities families. Funds raised during the Christmas season support food and shelter programs throughout the year.

 

The Salvation Army is always in need of bell ringers, and there are still thousands of shifts needing to be filled—visit RegisterToRing.com to sign up. Invite family, friends, and coworkers to ring this year and help those in need this holiday season.

 

 

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The Salvation Army Northern Division last year helped 235,000 people overcome poverty, addiction and economic hardship through a range of social services, meeting human needs without discrimination. This year, new struggles caused by food shortages, inflation, increased energy costs and the threat of eviction have elevated the numbers of those seeking assistance.

 

By providing food for the hungry, emergency relief for disaster survivors, rehabilitation for those suffering from drug and alcohol abuse, and clothing and shelter for people in need, The Salvation Army Northern Division is #DoingTheMostGood at over 85 operation centers in Minnesota and North Dakota. For more information about The Salvation Army Northern Division, please visit SalvationArmyNorth.org.