The Salvation Army to Host Red Kettle Kick-Off on Friday, November 14

MILWAUKEE – The Salvation Army of Milwaukee County will officially launch its 2025 Red Kettle Campaign with a private celebration and breakfast on Friday, November 14 at 7 a.m. on the second floor of the Milwaukee Public Market.

The kick-off will feature the unveiling of this year’s fundraising goal, an overview of the season’s holiday initiatives, and remarks from local leaders.

The Red Kettle Campaign is Milwaukee County’s largest annual fundraising effort, powering essential programs year-round. In 2024, the campaign raised nearly $3.1 million, supporting:

• Three food pantries serving thousands of local families

• Winter coats, toys, and holiday meals for children and adults

• Shelter and housing assistance for individuals experiencing homelessness

• Backpacks, school supplies, and disaster relief services throughout the county

“Giving to The Salvation Army is a commitment to making a difference in the lives of those who need it most,” said Major Beverly Gates, Area Commander for The Salvation Army of Milwaukee County. “Every donation – no matter the size – provides shelter, food, and hope for people right here in our community. Together, we can show Milwaukee what compassion in action looks like.”

There are many ways for the community to get involved this season – from dropping change into the red kettles across Milwaukee County, to signing up as a volunteer bell ringer, or making an online or cashless gift.

Here are some ways to get started:

• Sign up to be a bell ringer at RegistertoRing.com

• Sign up to volunteer at any of our holiday programs: https://salarmy.us/VolunteerMKE

• Mail in a donation: The Salvation Army, 11315 W. Watertown Plank Road, Wauwatosa, WI 53226

• Donate online to our Virtual Red Kettle: https://salarmy.us/2025MilwaukeeCountyVirtualRedKettle

About The Salvation Army:
The Salvation Army, an evangelical part of the universal Christian church, has been supporting those in need in His name without discrimination since 1865. Nearly 33 million Americans receive assistance from The Salvation Army each year through the broadest array of social services that range from providing food for the hungry, relief for disaster victims, assistance for the disabled, outreach to the elderly and ill, clothing and shelter to the homeless and opportunities for underprivileged children. The Salvation Army tracks the level of need across the country with the Human Needs Index (Human NeedsIndex.org). Locally, 87 cents of every dollar raised is used to support programs and services in Milwaukee County.

NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. While it is believed to be reliable, Urban Milwaukee does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness.