Salvation Army kettles benefit local families

By ADAM STEWART

Staff writer

The red kettles of the Salvation Army are a sure sign that Christmas is approaching, and donations have been strong this year, Unit Treasurer the Rev. Stephen Humber said Monday.

“I actually had to go empty one because it was so full — nothing more would fit,” he said.

Humber attributed the increase in donations to more local awareness of people in need.

“People are just realizing the effects of the down economy,” he said.

All of the funds collected in kettles in Marion County are used to assist families in the county. The largest portion of the funds goes to utility assistance, Humber said.

There are 36 kettles in Marion County. The largest number of kettles are in Marion and Hillsboro, but people in smaller towns seem to appreciate a chance to contribute, he said.

Humber will collect the kettles around Jan. 1. He said he was thankful for people’s generosity, and for other pastors arranging the placement of kettles.

Envelopes for people to mail donations were also distributed in local newspapers, including the Marion County Record, Hillsboro Star-Journal, and Peabody Gazette-Bulletin.

Donations can also be mailed without those envelopes. Checks should be written to the Salvation Army with “Marion County” written in the memo line, Humber said. Donations can be mailed to: Unit Treasurer, Parkview Mennonite Brethren Church, 610 S Main St, Hillsboro KS 67063.