Salvation Army

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Expect change when you make a donation at a Red Kettle, at SalvationArmyNCA.org or by calling 1-800-SAL-ARMY. Every dollar is Giving Hope to the people right here in our community. Know that your support is Restoring Lives for the less fortunate in the Greater Washington area.

The Salvation Army is feeding the hungry, preventing homelessness, enriching the lives of children and teens, and creating opportunities for the addicted to break free from substance abuse.

For more ways to help and to donate, click here

The Red Kettle Story

The first Red Kettle in the United States was seen in 1891 in San Francisco. Salvation Army officer Captain Joseph McFee was determined to provide a free Christmas dinner to the city’s poor. He recalled during his days as a sailor a large pot on display at Stage Landing. It was called a “Simpson’s Pot.” It was used to collect donations from passersby. Adopting the idea, McFee obtained permission from San Francisco authorities to place a tripod and crab pot at the Oakland ferry landing. There the kettle stood – and McFee calling out to those who could here, “Keep the Pot Boiling!” He drew the attention of passengers and received many donations.

No one knew 123 years ago that The Salvation Army Red Kettle would become the most recognizable symbol of giving during the Christmas season. Every time you drop money into The Red Kettle, around the world or close to home, you can trust The Salvation Army is Doing the Most Good with the donation. An Army of volunteers stand outside of businesses and play or sing Christmas carols, while ringing the bell to inspire passersby to make a donation to help meet the need of those in need; our friends and our neighbors.

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