Salvation Army Red Kettle campaign raises more than $21,000 in Floyd County

By Kelly Terpstra, kterpstra@charlescitypress.com

The Salvation Army Christmas Red Kettle campaign had another great year of giving in Floyd County, according to campaign organizers.

The bell-ringing at four locations around Charles City raised more than $21,000.

The exact amount — $21,513.36 — can turn into a blessing in a time of need for someone less fortunate or for those who experience tough times in their life.

“We have such a giving, caring community here. It gives you goosebumps if you think about it,” said Kathy Crooks, the chairwoman of the Floyd County Salvation Army Red Kettle campaign.

She said volunteers went above and beyond the call of duty this Christmas season to donate their time at the kettles located at Theisen’s, Hy-Vee, Ace Hardware and Kmart in Charles City.

Crooks, who helps run the Floyd County Salvation Army out of St. John Evangelical Lutheran Church in Charles City, said there were 38 groups that rang the bell this year. The total number of bell-ringers was 415, who put in a total of 452 bell-ringing hours.

The kettles were set up the Friday after Thanksgiving, Nov. 23, and were staffed at various times through the final Saturday before Christmas, Dec. 22.

Crooks said the money raised was a sign that plenty of people in the community took the time to make donations.

“That odd cent amount shows you that they are willing to dig into their pockets and give you their last coin,” Crooks said. “That just indicates to you that people are so willing to give that they will give anything. Every penny is so appreciated.”

Of the money raised, 90 percent stays in Floyd County to help out those who need it.

Crooks said the board has prioritized money to go to several special projects throughout the year in addition to emergencies that could arise where an individual or family may need immediate assistance.

Marilee Monroe, who was one of the leaders of the Salvation Army’s Red Kettle campaign in Charles City, scaled back her duties with the organization this year. Although she is not directly affiliated with the campaign anymore, Crooks said all those still involved will never forget her contribution to the philanthropic endeavor.  

“She devoted so many hours and she was so passionate about this,” said Crooks. “It’s big shoes for us to fill, it really is. We’ll try to do her proud.”

St. John Church has been the base of the Floyd County Salvation Army for many years. The church provides office space, staff support and supplies to the Salvation Army. The Floyd County Salvation Army can be contacted at 641-228-3387.