Salvation Army sets Tree of Lights goal

It's a familiar scene during the Christmas season -- Salvation Army volunteers standing outside stores, ringing bells next to their shiny red kettles and encouraging generosity among holiday shoppers.

The local Salvation Army kicked off this year's red kettle campaign Sunday evening with the annual Tree of Lights ceremony at Westfield Shoppingtown West Park.

Members of the Salvation Army's choir and bands performed traditional Christmas carols while local residents sipped hot chocolate and waited for the lighting of the 25-foot Christmas tree outside the mall's main entrance.

According to Salvation Army Maj. Robert Gauthier, the organization has set this year's campaign goal at $220,000.

"This year of all years, it's vital that we meet our goal because we had a $35,000 direct assistance grant expire," Gauthier said.

The Tree of Lights campaign raised $197,000 last year.

The money collected is used to help area residents with rent, utilities and other necessities.

"The red kettle campaign is very important because it's our main funding. It's how we survive, through donations from others," said Georgia Rodgers. "Most people don't realize the money we collect during the Christmas season is used all year long."

Rodgers has been involved with the Salvation Army since 1993 and sings in organization's Songsters choir.

"As Christians, we need to think of those who are less fortunate and be thankful for what we have," Rodgers said. "Even dropping in just a quarter or 50 cents can mean a life-changing experience for someone else."