In order to make this year’s campaign a success, they are in need of volunteers to ring bells at Pat’s Foods in Florence and the Aurora BP/Liquor Store in Aurora, Wis., through Dec. 24.

They also need people for the kettles at the Christmas in Florence event Saturday, Dec. 7, in the gym and cafeteria of the Florence County High School. The annual Florence event includes vendors in offering arts and craft items, activities for kids and a visit by Santa and Mrs. Claus.

Florence County Red Kettle campaign coordinator Karen Wertanen said there’s no substitute for having someone ringing the bells.

“When those familiar red kettles have a friendly person standing by, generous contributions go into the kettles,” Wertanen said.

Austin Angeloff, portraying The Grinch, and his mother Gen Angeloff of Kingsford rang bells at Walmart on Thursday as the Salvation Army Bread of Life Assistance Center of Kingsford started its 2024 Red Kettle Campaign. The local fundraising effort runs through Dec. 24. The organization still needs ringers to fill shifts this season. Volunteers are asked to ring for two hours between 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. at one of these kettle locations: both entrances of Walmart, Super One Foods, Marketplace Foods, Pat’s Foods in Norway and Northwoods IGA in Niagara, Wis.; or between 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Kingsford Ace Hardware. To sign up for bell ringing, contact kettle coordinator Michelle Floriano-Martens at 906-200-0390. (Terri Castelaz/Daily News photo)

They encourage the community to come take part either as family, groups or organizations.

“Your children or grandchildren will be happy to ring the bell with you,” she said.

The Salvation Army appreciates any time that can be given, whether just an hour or two.

Wertanen said the time passes quickly and it is fun to greet friends and neighbors while helping the Salvation Army, which in turn helps others.

To volunteer, contact Wertanen at 715-528-4744.

Several local businesses will host counter kettles as well, including Barb’s Cafe, Family Dollar, Florence BP, Big Foot Liquor, Aurora BP/Liquor, and Tom and Joe’s.

Community members can also use the QR code that is on the sign above the kettles for electronic donations.

Donations, too, can be sent for the Salvation Army to the Great North Bank, P.O. Box 500, Florence WI 54121.

All funds raised stay within Florence County to provide direct, local emergency assistance not only at Christmas time but throughout the year.