It was a Christmas miracle.
At the beginning of December, only 10 people had volunteered to ring the bell for the Clarion Salvation Army’s Red Kettle campaign. That changed however and the end result was a successful campaign.
“We ended up with about 40 people who volunteered to ring the bell,” said Renee Vowinckel, chairwoman of the Salvation Army in Clarion. “I was thrilled. The volunteers people really stepped up and gave of themselves.”
The bell ringers were at two locations – Walmart and the Knox Riverside.
“For the longest time we seemed to be stuck at only $5,000 and I didn’t think we would ever get anywhere close to what we usually get,” Vowinckel said. “We ended up with $20,454.47. That was still about $5,000 less than we usually get.”
The Red Kettle campaign is very important to the Salvation Army.
“This is the only time we get money for the people of Clarion County,” said Vowinckel. “We can help with utilities and other things depending upon the person.”
Anyone needing help can call (814) 797-0286.
Vowinckel noted that donation appeals that are sent through the mail or in print advertisements do not stay in Clarion County.
There are no requirements to be a bell ringer.
“Anyone can volunteer,” said Vowinckel. “We have individuals and we have groups.”
Donations can be mailed to the Salvation Army at P.O. Box 222, Clarion, 16214.