Salvation Army gets off to ringing start for holidays

Holiday fundraising started with a bang this week for The Salvation Army in Modesto and Turlock, with the charity raising nearly $250,000 at two kettle kickoff luncheons.

The Turlock Corps reported raising about $58,000 during its Tuesday luncheon at the Assyrian American Civic Club, which drew about 600 people. And the Modesto Citadel reported raising $189,362 during its Thursday luncheon at Modesto Centre Plaza, which drew about 1,100 people.

The donations – along with what is raised by Salvation Army bell ringers with their distinctive red kettles – will benefit the charity’s programs for the homeless, families, seniors and others in need. The bell ringers will be in front of stores and other locations in the weeks leading up to Christmas. The Turlock Corps typically raises about $50,000 from its bell ringers, while Modesto brings in about $160,000, though it hopes to reach $200,000 this holiday season.

The money helps The Salvation Army pay for its holiday food baskets and toys for needy families. For instance, the Modesto Citadel last year provided holiday food baskets that fed nearly 4,900 people. It also provided nearly 6,500 toys for children.

This story was originally published November 19, 2015 at 3:25 PM with the headline "Salvation Army gets off to ringing start for holidays."