The Red Kettle is an iconic symbol of The Salvation Army's work in the United States, particularly during the Christmas season.  Donations made to kettles stay in the local community and are used to fund programs that feed the homeless, help those affected by disaster, provide shelter for families in transition, and much, much more.  Nationally, The Salvation Army uses $0.82 of every dollar directly to fund programming.

Unfortunately, the overwhelming success and positive reputation of The Salvation Army means that others with selfish or criminal ambition continue to try to take advantage of this for their own gain.  Whether using stolen kettles or by fabricating their own imitations, there are many who will try to cheat those that need it most out of your cherished donations.

So, here are a few ways that you can "Know the Kettle" and ensure that your money is going where you expect it to go.

The (Familiar) Red Kettle

Kettles will always be red and made out of metal or plastic. Every kettle should also have a Salvation Army shield affixed to the front. They are always hung from a red tripod with a square placard at the top. These placards vary from year to year, but recently they have been printed with the words "Doing the Most Good."  Typically, each kettle will be assigned a worker, though on rare occasions, you will see "unmanned" kettles.

Workers/Volunteers

Our workers and volunteers may vary from day to day. However, they should always be wearing a red apron, with the Salvation Army shield and possibly the words "Doing the Most Good" printed on them as well. They will usually, but not always have a bell that they will be ringing. Workers may be manning kettle stations alone or as as groups.

Locations

While locations may vary, you'll most often see us outside of shopping centers, grocery stores, department stores, and so on. We will never be collecting funds roadside nor will we come to your door with a kettle.

If you encounter a red kettle that seems suspicious, or you want to simply know the regular kettle locations in your area, please contact your local Salvation Army unit.

Highlights

Salvation Army kettles are always red, always mounted on a red tripod with a Salvation Army placard affixed to the top.  Kettles usually are manned by an individual or group wearing read "Salvation Army" aprons who will often be ringing our familiar bell.  Kettles are generally located at large public areas - you'll never see an official kettle being brought door to door, or donations being solicited roadside.

See a Suspicious Kettle?

See a suspicious kettle somewhere in North or South Carolina?  Please call us at 704-522-4970,  or contact us here.