A Different Take on a Familiar Christmas Tradition
It’s not unusual to see bright red kettles and hear the ringing of bells as we stroll through shopping malls and big box parking lots during the Christmas season. The familiar sights and sounds of the Salvation Army’s annual fundraising effort to help the less fortunate is a sure sign that the holidays are upon us. But did you know that the Salvation Army undertakes another initiative to assist families in need during Christmas?
In recent years, the Salvation Army began hosting the Christmas Warehouse, where gifts are received, packaged, and distributed to folks who have preregistered and qualified to be the beneficiaries of these gifts. It’s like other gift–giving programs, and those receiving gifts through the Salvation Army can pick them up at the Christmas Warehouse. Approximately 2,800 local families received gifts through this ministry in 2021, and at least this many are expected for this year as well.
The Christmas Warehouse is conveniently located at the State Fairgrounds. First Presbyterian Church has committed to providing volunteers to work there Tuesday, December 13. The day is divided into morning and afternoon shifts of four hours each: 8:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. and 12:30 – 4:30 p.m. Feel free to sign up for one shift or both.
There are plenty of opportunities for members, as well as their friends, to get involved as we need 20-25 workers per shift. We will be giving out the gifts which have been marked and staged for ease of distribution when recipients arrive at the Christmas Warehouse.
This is a wonderful opportunity for our church to serve our community during the Christmas season. If you are interested in participating, please visit the church website under the “Local Missions” tab, or look for the e-board with a QR code. Your willingness to join in this effort is much appreciated!
Dan Cannon
Salvation Army Kettle Bell Ringing
We will be ringing for our Christian brothers and sisters for the Salvation Army at Lowe's Foods on Forest Drive on December 2, 3, 9, and 10. We have many slots to fill! Anyone 16 and up can be the ringer "of record," and teens and kids are welcome to join others. This is a great opportunity to cheer the hearts of shoppers, raise funds for the poor, and introduce your children to Christian service. Sign-ups are available on the church app and on the website at firstprescolumbia.org/serve.
Brad Martin
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