Last Friday, The Salvation Army Empire State division had nearly 100 red kettles placed at Walmart locations throughout the region as part of The Salvation Army’s “National Commander’s Red Kettle Challenge” in an effort to raise more than $1.5 million nationally during a four-hour period.

Since 2020, The Salvation Army national commander, Commissioner Kenneth Hodder, has challenged Salvation Army officers, employees, and community supporters to raise more funds than him during any four-hour shift on a particular day during the month of December.

This year’s challenge will took place Friday, Dec. 9, with the goal of “not only raising funds to support local Salvation Army programs and services, but as a fun and engaging opportunity to raise awareness for those in need.”

Last year, The Salvation Army’s Red Kettle Challenge raised more than $1 million nationwide, with all funds raised at local red kettles staying in the communities in which they were raised.

To offer your support and help your neighbors in need, visit SALVATIONARMYUSA.ORG